At California ReLeaf it's all About Trees

at California ReLeaf

it's all about trees...

by Madeline Palaszewski

The golden state of California stands with communities wanting to preserve and enhance their green corridors. One group focuses specifically on trees. California ReLeaf promotes alliances among community-based groups, individuals and government agencies, encouraging them to plant and care for trees. Its grant program increases access to urban forestry funding by providing grants to community groups. Locally, Greening Los Osos has partnered with California ReLeaf to plant trees in open space surrounding the town. During the summer, California ReLeaf partnered with Save Our Water and urban forest groups across the state to bring awareness to the importance of tree care while cutting back on outdoor water use. Here are some tips on caring for your trees while cutting back on water: 1) Deeply and slowly water mature trees 1 to 2 times per month toward the edge of the tree canopy – NOT at the base of the tree. 2) Use recycled water to care for your trees. Shower with a bucket and use that water for trees and plants, as long as it is free of non-biodegradable soap. 3) Don’t over-prune tree during drought. Too much pruning and drought stress trees. 4) Mulch! 4 to 6 inches of mulch helps retain moisture, reducing water needs and protecting trees. 5) Watch the weather and let Mother Nature handle watering if rain is in the forecast.

For more information on tree care and programs offered by California ReLeaf, log in to www.californiareleaf.org