Here in East Tennessee, the average temperature in June, July and August ranges between 85 and 87 degrees. Some trees cannot stand the heat without a little extra hydration. Even though we tend to get a lot of thunderstorms in the summertime, many tree root systems are too deep in the dirt to actually be reached by general rainfall. That precipitation is more likely to end up as runoff or in the sewers rather than seeping into the soil around the tree. Making sure your tree is watered properly is a very important part in making sure your tree is hydrated. Read on as the Kingsport tree experts at Promier Tree further explore this topic.
How do I know if my trees need water?
If your tree was planted in the last two years, odds are it probably needs a little extra watering. For tree roots to establish themselves in the ground, the plant expels a lot of energy. Water helps the tree absorb the nutrients they need to exert that extra energy. To see if your tree needs water, you can conduct the “screwdriver test.” Use a long screwdriver, at least eight inches long. Put the screwdriver in the soil. If it’s difficult to dig into the ground, the soil is too hard and should be watered. If it’s adequately wet, you should have no problem getting the screwdriver at least six inches into the ground.
Do trees need more during the warm weather?
Yes, trees do need more water during hot weather. High temperatures cause the water that is stored under the soil to evaporate. In times of drought, even mature trees may need extra water to avoid wilting and potentially dying.
When, how much, and how often should I water my trees?
Trees usually need to be watered the most during the mid to late summer months. This is when the highest temperatures occur, which lead to the evaporation of the water in the soil. The best time of day to water is early in the morning while the temperature is at its mildest. Young trees may need to be watered a few times per week, while more established trees can be monitored to assess their need. As a general rule of thumb, use ten gallons of water for each inch of the tree trunk’s diameter. Watering slowly and deeply is best to ensure the water soaks in the soil to reach the tree’s roots.
Consider adding mulch
Adding organic mulch to the soil around your tree can help the soil maintain its moisture for a longer period of time than soil without mulch. As long as the water is getting through to the soil layer and not suffocating the trunk of your tree, it can be very beneficial in keeping soil from drying out.
Year-round tree care in Kingsport, Bristol and Johnson City, Tennessee
Keeping your trees healthy can be challenging in the harsh heat of the Tennessee summer. That’s why, in all seasons, it’s good to have an expert you can trust to provide care for your trees. The ISA-certified arborists at Promier Tree are here for you. Visit us online or give us a call at (423) 765-2626 to schedule a tree health evaluation today.