On the street where I live, the crepe myrtle trees are beginning to bloom. I am worried the annual pink profusion is in danger as the hammer comes down on compliance with mandatory water restrictions.
Parkway trees in particular are being neglected by both the city that planted them and the homeowners who have the responsibility to water them. The look of our leafy neighborhoods will change very quickly if trees are left to die in the drought.
Trees, unlike lawns and shrubs, are not easily replaced once gone. They take years to grow and mature into the beautiful suburban canopy we now enjoy. We must take measures to ensure that our neighborhood trees survive the drought.
Mind the trees
Front yards are disappearing as homeowners try to use less water and cash in on rebates for turf removal. In doing so, the normal source of water for most trees will also be removed. A tree’s health is dependent on adequate irrigation, and if it does not receive the water it is accustomed to, the tree will become stressed and more susceptible to disease and insects.
What can we do to save our trees? Instead of cutting trees off cold turkey when moving to drought tolerant landscape, try slowly transitioning them off regular watering. You may have been watering the new drought restrictions went into play.
Save water slowly
Start by watering trees once every two weeks, then try once every three weeks until you reach a month or more without watering. Keep an eye on signs of stress to prevent irreversible damage. Check out broadleaf trees for yellow, curling or brown-edged leaves. Are pine or spruce trees turning brown and dropping needles? Drought-stress will begin with dropping leaves but eventually destroy the branches.
If possible, consider installing a drip irrigation system around a tree. Watering with drip tubing is ideal because the entire root zone is watered at a very slow rate, conducive for deep rooting and eliminating runoff.
Drip tubing is spaced at 12, 18 or 24 inches apart and can be adjusted as the tree’s canopy grows. Pairing a drip system with a thick layer of mulch can retain moisture and hide the tubing. Deep watering once a trees will require more frequent watering.
Check moisture at a depth of about 3-6 inches into the soil. Typical watering needs for young trees will be between 7-14 days, depending on weather conditions. Citrus trees should be deep watered down to 36 inches if possible every two weeks.
Watering needs for avocado and other fruit trees will vary from weekly to monthly depending on weather. Check soil moisture 6-8 inches below the surface and water if dry.
Trees not only clean the air and cool the environment, they improve property value and neighborhood appeal. Your investment in the trees on your property will pay off when it comes time to sell.
Adriana Donofrio - Podley Properties Glendora 626 914-2904, adrianad@podley.com
