How to Protect Trees During a Drought

Trees are vital to our environment, providing shade, improving air quality, and supporting wildlife. However, during our current period of drought, trees face significant stress that can threaten their health and survival. Protecting our trees during a drought requires understanding their needs and taking proactive steps to help them endure dry conditions. Our guide offers practical advice on how to care for your trees effectively when water is limited.

Understanding Tree Care in Droughts

Trees rely on water to transport nutrients, maintain cell structure, and support growth. When water is scarce, trees close their stomata to reduce water loss, but this also limits photosynthesis. Prolonged drought can weaken trees, making them more vulnerable to pests and diseases.

To care for trees during dry spells, focus on maintaining soil moisture, reducing stress, and supporting their natural defenses. Here are some key strategies:

• Water deeply and infrequently: Shallow watering encourages weak roots. Instead, water slowly and deeply to encourage roots to grow deeper into the soil.

• Mulch around the base: A 2-4 inch layer of organic mulch helps retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and reduce weed competition.

• Fertilizing during drought: Our fertilizer is great to do during droughts. We mix it with a high volume of water and pump it throughout the root zone. And we use a quick release and a slow release fertilizer so it can help the tree immediately and for a few months.

• Prune carefully: Remove dead or damaged branches to reduce stress but avoid heavy pruning that can increase water demand.

  
  

Mulch helps retain moisture around tree roots

What is in a drought?

A drought is a prolonged period of below-average precipitation that results in water shortages. During a drought, soil moisture decreases, making it difficult for trees to absorb the water they need.

Trees respond to drought by slowing growth, shedding leaves, or dropping branches to conserve water. However, if the drought persists, these adaptations may not be enough to prevent damage or death.

Understanding the impact of drought on trees helps in planning effective care. For example, knowing when to water and how much can make a significant difference in tree survival.

Dry soil conditions around tree during drought

Practical Tips to Protect Trees During Dry Periods

Protecting trees during dry spells involves several practical steps that anyone can implement:

1. Watering Techniques

• Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses to deliver water directly to the root zone.

• Water early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation.

• Apply 10-15 gallons of water per inch of trunk diameter weekly during drought.




2. Mulching

• Use organic materials like wood chips, bark, or compost.

• Keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.

• Replenish mulch as it decomposes to maintain effectiveness.




3. Soil Care

• Avoid compacting soil around trees by limiting foot traffic and heavy equipment.

• Aerate soil if necessary to improve water penetration.

• Add organic matter to improve soil structure and moisture retention.




4. Tree Health Monitoring

• Regularly inspect trees for signs of stress such as wilting, leaf scorch, or early leaf drop.

• Treat pest infestations promptly to prevent further weakening.

• Consult our arborists if you notice severe symptoms.

Mulched garden bed protecting tree roots

Signs of Tree Stress and How to Respond

Recognizing early signs of stress can help you intervene before damage becomes irreversible. Common symptoms include:

• Wilting or curling leaves: Indicates insufficient water uptake.

• Leaf scorch: Brown edges on leaves caused by dehydration.

• Premature leaf drop: Trees shed leaves to reduce water loss.

• Cracked or peeling bark: Can signal internal damage.

• Dieback of branches: Dead or dying branches at the top or outer parts of the tree.

  
  

If you observe these signs, increase watering efforts and check soil moisture. If problems persist, seek our professional advice.

Long-Term Strategies for Tree Resilience

Building tree resilience to withstand future dry spells involves:

• Selecting drought-tolerant species: Native trees adapted to local climate conditions are more likely to survive drought.

• Proper planting techniques: Plant trees at the right depth and provide adequate space for root growth.

• Regular maintenance: Keep trees healthy year-round with proper watering, mulching, and pruning.

• Soil improvement: Enhance soil with organic matter to boost water retention and nutrient availability.

  
  

By investing in these long-term practices, you can help your trees thrive even in challenging conditions.

Protecting trees during dry periods is essential for their health and the environment. With careful attention to watering, mulching, and monitoring, you can help your trees survive and flourish despite water shortages. Remember, a little effort goes a long way in preserving these valuable natural assets.

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.