Set Trees Up for Success this Spring & Summer
Despite current moisture levels our trees are drought stressed and if we get another dry summer, it will be tough for some to survive. Water is essential for trees to take up the nutrients they need to grow and thrive. Without those nutrients, a tree’s defence system shuts down, and it becomes an easy target for disease and pests.
Here are a few things a local arborist Trilogy Tree Services, suggests you do to help your trees through stressful times:
Deep, infrequent watering. Run the hose on a steady stream (not too strong, but more than a trickle) for 30-60 minutes for smaller trees, and anywhere from 1-3 hours for large trees. Water at the drip line of the canopy, and use a sprinkler on larger trees for better coverage. Do this about once a week during the hot summer months to ensure that the trees receive adequate water without the roots becoming over-saturated.
Regular pruning. Having trees pruned every 3-5 years is crucial in preventing stress. Not only does it improve light & airflow through the canopy and promote a healthy structure, but it also allows the tree to send nutrients to the strongest and most beneficial branches. This prevents the tree from wasting energy and allows it to focus those resources where they matter most. When pruning, an experienced arborist knows which branches to select to promote long-term health for your tree.
DED prevention for American Elms trees. As stated before, a stressed tree is far more susceptible to be overcome by an infestation or disease. Due to the years of drought conditions that we have faced, many of the trees in our city are already at a higher risk of infection. One way you can protect your trees is by injecting them preventatively every 3 years for Dutch Elm Disease.
Organic matter. Incorporating organic matter such as compost to the soil or applying mulch over the root zone of the tree adds valuable nutrients to the soil, improves soil structure as well as aids in regulating soil temperature & maintaining moisture, which makes once-a-week watering even more effective!
Prevent defoliation. Worm season approaches and spraying approved insecticide is the only way to get rid of these defoliators. If you notice small holes forming in the leaves of your trees come late spring, call us immediately. It is crucial that the worms be sprayed at this point in their life cycle. This will ensure that the population is reduced enough to spare the canopy.