In trying to keep lawns healthy during this hot, dry, summer, don’t forget about trees! Those often-massive trunks aren’t water storage systems, as most water taken up by trees is not held inside but instead is returned to the atmosphere in a process called “transpiration,” so rain (or watering) is needed in order for their survival.
Ways to keep trees healthy during a drought:
- Prioritize—trees that need to be watered consistently include younger trees that have been planted in the landscape in the last few years, and trees showing signs of heat stress. Signs include dropping or wilting leaves, and leaves that are small or malformed and/or have browned or yellowing tips.
- Know how much to water—during drought conditions, the experts recommend 1-2 gallons per inch of trunk diameter, once a week, enough to keep the trees alive rather than forcing them into a growing stage.
- Follow watering/gardening techniques that limit water waste and increase water retention, such as
-using a hose, bubbler or drip system instead of a sprinkler
-using compost instead of fertilizer
-spreading 2-3 inches of mulch under the canopy of the tree (without
touching the trunk)
-avoiding pruning activities
More information: Watering trees during the Texas drought – AgriLife Today (tamu.edu)
