Essential Summer Tree Care: Watering Tips for Healthy Growth

Don’t let summer sunshine hide the truth! Recent rain might be a temporary reprieve, but Indiana’s drought lingers. This dryness threatens your trees, vital for a healthy landscape. But fear not! This post equips you with summer tree care essentials: watering tips and the importance of mulching. Keep your trees thriving! For a flourishing landscape, even in dry weather, keep reading and discover how Wells Lawn Care can help.

Summer Drought Awareness

With recent rainstorms across the state, watering might not be a top concern. However, as summer continues, it’s crucial to remember that most of Indiana is experiencing abnormal dryness to moderate drought, similar to previous years. This means we need to focus on the health of our trees.

Understanding Drought Stress

Drought stress can cause trees to decline and even die. Understanding what drought is and how it affects trees can help us care for them better. Drought is a long period with little to no rain, which can slow tree growth, reduce photosynthesis, and deplete the energy reserves trees need to survive the winter. Drought-stressed trees are more vulnerable to pests and diseases because they can’t produce enough defensive chemicals, and in severe cases, they may die.

Signs of Drought Stress

Signs of drought stress include wilting leaves and parts of the tree dying back. One simple way to protect your trees is by watering them, especially young and newly transplanted trees. A good rule of thumb is the 5-plus-5 rule: use 5 gallons of water plus 5 gallons for every inch of the tree trunk’s diameter. For example, a 4-inch tree would need about 25 gallons of water as needed. To prevent water runoff, you can use a large bucket with small holes to create a slow drip watering system. Also, check the soil’s moisture levels to see if it’s dry, moist, or saturated.

Importance of Mulching

Another way to keep soil moisture is by mulching around the tree. Mulch rings should be at least 3 feet in diameter and 2-3 inches deep, with a 2-3 inch space between the base of the trunk and the inner mulch ring. Avoid “volcano mulching,” where mulch is piled up against the trunk, as this can cause problems like stem girdling root production and decay. Mulching helps reduce evaporation from the soil, maintains moderate soil temperatures, reduces competition from nearby plants, and protects the trunk from damage caused by mowing and lawn care equipment.

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Trust Wells Lawn Care

At Wells Lawn Care, we know how important proper tree care is, especially during dry conditions. Our lawn care services are designed to keep your entire landscape healthy and beautiful, even in challenging weather. For expert advice and top-notch lawn care, trust the professionals at Wells Lawn Care. Visit Wells Lawn Care Monthly Packages to learn more and get started today!