Lesson 6: Trees And Shrubs
Watering
Watering a tree seems to be fairly straightforward, but truly it isn’t. Many people aren’t aware of the need to water a young tree differently than a fully mature specimen. Incorrect watering leads to root problems and a host of other problems.
In the lesson on planting a tree, we learned that building a basin around the tree was advisable. This helps deliver water to the root system much more effectively. A mature tree however, needs to be watered at least 3 feet out from the trunk. When you water your trees, water where they can use it -- out over the feeder roots. Established trees don´t have feeder roots close to the trunk. In fact, watering at the trunk can cause rot. We now know that almost all tree roots reside within the top 12-24 inches of soil. Make sure you water deeply to reach the entire root zone. Sprinkling with a sprinkler system each day will encourage roots to come to the surface for water. This is what can contribute to roots buckling patios and walkways. Young trees need deep regular watering, especially during summers heat. Older trees, with their fully mature root systems, don´t require as much. The stress on young saplings from excessive heat, can kill them.
If the soil around a tree gets hard and compacted, it makes water absorption extremely difficult. Get in the habit of gently turning the earth around your trees to get better penetration. An early morning shower of leaves, trunk and branches, can help a tree withstand the heat during the day. This also removes pollutants and dust, which can hinder a tree’s absorption of moisture. This is particularly true of pines, which are native to cooler, high altitude climates.
By learning to water your trees correctly, you help them grow healthier, with much less damage to their surroundings.
Assignment: Ask your local nursery, or go online and find out which trees are considered drought tolerant or heat resistant.
