Watering Tip #4 DROUGHT AND YOUR TREES

Trees and plants respond to a drought in different ways. Drought can cause deficits in plants; they can have smaller and thicker leaves, wood vessels that move water and nutrients are smaller and respiration and photosynthesis are reduced.

Respiration converts sugars into energy for growth and other life processes. 
Photosynthesis is the process by which  green plants use sunlight to synthesize nutrients from carbon dioxide and water. 

If both of these processes are interrupted plants will not put on the normal growth and may struggle as the season moves on. 

There are only two primary mechanisms by which plants survive drought, avoidance and tolerance. 

Avoidance is watering your plants. I have gone over my watering schedule and found places where I could reduce water without damaging the plant. My thoughts are on survival.  Healthy plants can handle less water in these conditions. I will not use fertilizer, but would feed with a good amendment that provide nutrients slowly. 
Tolerance means that some plants can survive from what nature provides. Those of us who live and garden in the high desert know this plant list. 
Here are a few ideas to help save water and keep your plants comfortable. 


Deep root watering
One of the best ways to get water deep into the soil is with a soaker hose. I will circle a tree or large shrub with the hose, turn the hose on to full flow, wait 60 to 90 seconds and turn back by half. Set a time for an about an hour, do this once a month and your trees should survive nicely. This method is a great way to get the water where it is needed.

Mulching 

Using 3 inches of mulch over a planted area can save up to 30% water. Keep the mulch several inches from the truck of the tree. 

The Kellogg Garden Products company has a great mulch that you might want to have a look at. This product can be found at Home Depot and Lowe's for a great price

• Great for in-ground planting of trees, shrubs and other plant 
• Mix with existing soil 
• Use as a mulch to save water, 3 inches can save up to 30% water
• Fully composted with natural fertilizer

Don't fertilize your trees while we are in this situation. Many fertilizer have salts and can burn the roots if not enough water it applied. Fertilizers may also stimulate top growth creating too many leaves on the plant. More leaves use more water, the key is survival not more new growth.

Reduce water to your landscape that is healthy and mature is a great idea to save water. I have reduced my water by 1/3 and watching to make sure all of the plants are adjusting, and they are. Every gallon of water saved can may be needed for the heat of the summer and early fall. 

You should always prune dead and diseased limbs from your trees. This way the tree will use its energy for new growth rather than repairing. 


I hope these ideas will help you conserve water in your gardens. The lawn will not die if you apply less water, but it will look dry. Don't worry once it cools down it will green up and give you your desired look. 

Marnie Brennan, GardenCoach Reno Nevada