NEWSLETTER THE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER FOR OKLAHOMA COMMUNITY FORESTRY COUNCIL
SPRING 2020
Keep Trees Healthy The trees that we will all plant throughout statewide Arbor Day celebrations will still need our help. One hundred degree days coupled with drought conditions that we often experience during summer results in water stress for many trees. This stress occurs when trees use more water than they take up through their roots. Symptoms may include drooping leaves, yellowing leaves, and wilting. Sometimes trees will drop foliage as a survival mechanism so their energy will not be completely depleted during dry weather conditions. Watering thoroughly each week will help your tree stay healthy enough to form new leaves when conditions improve.
Even established trees may need supplemental watering during the dry, hot days ahead. At least an inch of water should be applied over the entire root zone each week. A layer of 3-4 inches of organic mulch over the tree’s roots will lower the soil temperature and conserve moisture. The large papery leave of maple, catalpa, dogwood, and other species can become wilted and exhibit singed edges during this season. Brown edges around the margin of the leaf will often be found on trees near streets, brick walls, and sidewalks where heat is reflected on the lower leaf surface.
Although there is no cure for the affected tree, it reminds us that matching the location of a tree with the conditions it prefers makes it easier to keep the tree healthy.
“Forests are the lungs of our land, purifying the air and giving fresh strength to our people.” - Franklin
D. Roosevelt
IN THIS ISSUE Tree Maintenance
Native Trees
Trees at Schools