13/07/2025
Drought protection for your trees
Trees are generally pretty resistant to drought conditions, especially more mature ones. These are able to access moisture deep in the soil and over a wider area.
Different species have their own methods to overcome long dry spells. Birch (Betula sp.) for example just pretend it's autumn and go into an early dormancy. You may begin to see leaves turning already.
Larger growing species such as Beech (Fagus sp.) and Oaks (Quercus sp.) can tell when resources are scarce and will sacrifice a limb. These limbs, often quite large, are shed with no warning signs in a potentially dangerous phenomenon known as Summer Branch Drop.
So what can you do to help your trees in this weather?
If the trees are big, they will probably be OK, bearing in mind the potential of branch drop, and what might be of value underneath.
Smaller and newly planted trees are much more susceptible to drought. Watering is an option, and a general rule of thumb is a watering can full per inch of stem diameter, every few days. Mulching with a good deep layer around the base of the tree out as far as the canopy extends keeps the moisture in the soil and prevents competition from weeds etc. If you have thirsty conifers, consider removing them altogether as they will completely remove all the moisture from the soil!
As always, we are here for advice, removals, pruning and mulch supplies!
www.tree-creeper.com
07810483229
Or message us on here with any questions!
