Record Heat Puts Record Stress on Trees: Trees Need to be Watered During Period of Extreme Heat
Aug 5, 2011
Texas Trees Foundation reminds everyone that the record heat and lack of rain means trees are under extreme stress and need more water. Irrigation is needed for trees and gardens year-round, but is critical during the hot summer months.
“Under normal summer conditions, trees and turf should be watered three days a week,” said Matt Grubisich, Texas Trees Foundation Urban Forester. “Because we’ve had so many days of extreme heat and drought, it’s crucial to water trees at least that often, including deeper watering.”
In most cases, it is best to water manually with a hose or a soaker hose; water slowly for about an hour in the root zone under the tree canopy. Once the area is soaked, relocate and repeat watering process until all the root zones have been well watered. Be sure to break up the watering times, if necessary, to prevent surface runoff. If the soil is dry then it is time to water.
Trees play an important role in the health of communities and create a better quality of life for residents and visitors. A regional approach to urban forestry programming is being created by the Texas Trees Foundation to help mitigate some of the environmental challenges of air and water quality and the demand for energy. Trees shading and cooling our homes reduces the demand for energy. Trees sequester CO2 and they slow down water runoff. In addition, trees increase property values, shade heat islands lowering the ambient air temperatures, increase business activity and lower crime. Trees create healthy and beautiful communities.
Texas Trees Foundation is a private nonprofit dedicated to creating healthy communities by protecting and enhancing the urban forest while investing in people.” www.TexasTrees.org
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