The long, hot days of summer can be a hard time for urban trees, and this summer is proving to be a tough one. Daily temperatures in Portland are expected to be in the 90s for the next week!
Young trees, especially those planted within the last three years, are at a high risk of dying during prolonged dry spells with high temperatures. Here are some signs to watch out for that may mean your young trees are not getting enough water:
• Leaves that look limp and dull
• Curling of the leaves
• Browning along leaf edges
• Dropping leaves suddenly
• New dead twigs and branches
• Conifer needles turning red or yellow
Providing young trees with the right amount of water during the summer can help keep them alive and healthy. Healthy trees are more likely to reach maturity and provide their maximum
benefits. Here are some tricks of the trade for watering young trees:
• Give young trees 15 to 30 gallons of water each week during dry weather
• Slow and steady watering allows the soil around the trees to soak in the water
• Use a five-gallon bucket with holes in the lower sides to help water slowly and thoroughly
• Keep weeds and other plants away from young trees, they compete for water and other resources
• Mulching around your trees helps to retain water and keeps tree roots moist
To learn more about how to establish, water, and care for your young trees visit our
Establishment Care page.
