There are
certain aspects of a tree's life cycle that are pretty predictable. All
trees and shrubs have a life expectancy, but seasonal conditions and how
you care for your trees, has an effect on that life cycle. Any stress
on a mature tree, such as a drought, can shorten its life.
Cottonwoods are
notorious for shedding lots of leaves during dry periods in summer.
Conifers may develop yellowing and browning of needle tips in response
to a dry summer. Dry and stressed trees are more prone to pest problems.
Mature trees
have expansive root systems that extend from 2 to 3 times the size of
the leaf canopy. Trees lose significant amounts of water directly
through the leaf surface. Trees also lose water through twigs, branches,
roots, and stems even during the winter if the air temperature is above
freezing.
So, when the
ground thaws out later this spring, give your mature trees a good drink
to get them off to a healthy start to the summer!
