Back to School means Back to the Basics for your Trees
- Jordan Haas
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
The "Dog Days of Summer" are here in Cincinnati and these conditions pose significant challenges that can affect the health and longevity of our local trees. It's not all doom and gloom however, with the right methods, your trees can not only endure but also remain robust and healthy even in intense heat. Here’s how to ensure your trees receive the water they need through this challenging time of the year.
Effective Watering Techniques
Proper watering is crucial for maintaining tree health during Cincinnati summers. Trees require ample moisture to cope with high temperatures and strong sunlight, as well as to sustain their growth. However, it’s not just about the amount of water – timing and method are also important.
Temperature Influences Water Requirements
Monitor the temperature closely. Water your trees when it's cooler than 90°F. When temperatures exceed this, trees may enter a dormancy phase, reducing water absorption to survive. If it reaches 100°F, they might shut down entirely. A useful tip is to water your trees both before and after a heat wave to keep them hydrated during the hottest days.
The Optimal Way to Water Trees in Summer
For watering trees, adopt a "deep and infrequent" strategy. This encourages deeper root growth, allowing trees to access water even during dry spells. Our soil is predominantly clay-based which can lead to issues with drainage and compaction. While clay soil has its advantages, such as retaining nutrients, its tendency to compact can hinder root growth and water penetration. As a result the water doesn’t reach the deeper roots where it's most needed.
We prefer using a soaker hose that way you're not standing outside for long periods of time. These tools gradually soak the soil, ensuring deep water penetration.
The ideal times to water are early morning or late evening. This reduces evaporation, ensuring more water reaches the roots where it’s needed.
This proactive strategy not only aids your trees in enduring the summer months but also enhances their overall health and longevity.
Below is the watering guide we recommend:
Gregory Forrest Lester, Inc. Tree Health Professionals in Cincinnati, Ohio
Our team boasts ISA Board Certified Master Arborists, ISA Certified Arborists, and Tree Risk Assessment Qualified Arborists ready to assist you.
