Tree Care for Drought Stressed Trees

Identifying Drought Stress on Trees

The unyielding heat wave in Austin, TX is taking its toll on all trees but especially those damaged in the 2023 Winter Storm. Tree care in drought affected areas is crucial. Knowing the signs to look for in trees and the steps for proper tree care before it becomes damaged beyond help is important. Homeowners and property owners are seeing many of the below symptoms in the trees on their property:

Wilting or drooping leaves caused by the lack of water and extreme temperatures
Premature leaf drop is a reaction trees have to reduce the amount of water needed in the tree
Leaf scorch – brown or crispy edges caused by the heat and lack of water
Cracked or dry soil around the base is a sign that the soil is not getting any water

After this last winter storm of 2023 that damaged so many of the trees in the Central Texas area, they are extremely weak. The drought and extreme temperatures can make them even weaker causing susceptibility to rot, decay and pests.

The larger the tree, the longer it takes for it to recover from the drought.

How to Care for Trees in a Drought

tree base with soaker hose around the dripline — Soaker hose around dripline of tree

Provide a deep slow soak

When you water your grass with the sprinkler system, tree roots don’t get adequate water intake. Make sure you use either a soaker hose or, if using your water hose, turn it on to a slow trickle and place under the tree canopy’s drip line. This is extremely important for proper tree care.

live oak tree with an outline of dripline in blue — The dripline is under the tree’s canopy

Water along the drip line

To ensure that the roots of the tree get water, the water should reach the roots. The drip line is where the water should be placed. This line runs along the edge of your trees canopy and is where the roots extend to. Do not put the hose by the trunk as the roots will not get the needed water.

red oak leaves that are dried — tree leaves turn brown and drop to protect the tree in drought

Prune dead or damaged branches

The weakened branches are an entry point for pests, rot or decay causing even more damage to your tree. Don’t wait for the damage to start as it becomes more difficult and expensive to treat.

Whether it’s protecting your trees from drought stress or ensuring they thrive during the scorching heat, Leaf Tree Services is here to provide expert care and guidance. Call us at 512-670-6766 for a free estimate.

Let’s make your trees the envy of Central Texas!

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