A Brief Look at How Drought Affects Trees

Droughts can have a devastating impact on trees. These vital components of our ecosystem suffer immensely when deprived of water, leading to long-term damage or even death. Whether you are a homeowner or a property developer, understanding how drought affects trees can help you keep your landscape healthy and looking good. Learn more in this brief look at what happens to a tree during a drought and what you can do to help them.

What Happens to a Tree During a Drought

When a drought arrives, trees face significant challenges that can alter their physiology and overall health. Read on to learn about these changes that may affect them for years.

The Trees Do Not Get Their Nutrients

During a drought, the first and most immediate effect on trees is the scarcity of water, which disrupts their ability to absorb essential nutrients from the soil. Trees rely on water to transport these nutrients from the roots to other parts of their structures.

If a tree has limited water access, its nutrient uptake slows considerably, leading to deficiencies affecting its growth. Property owners may notice slower growth rates and a general decline in the tree’s appearance.

The Roots Will Die

A tree’s root system is critical to its health and stability. However, drought conditions can severely impact them. Without adequate moisture, the roots begin to die off. This root dieback not only hinders the tree’s ability to take up water and nutrients but also compromises its stability.

It may take a very long time for the tree to grow back these roots so it can start absorbing moisture again. However, be aware that visible signs of root damage may not appear immediately, which makes it essential for you to monitor the tree’s overall health over time so you can spot the symptoms earlier.

Trees Become More Vulnerable to Pests and Disease

A weakened tree is an open invitation for pests and disease. During a drought, trees’ natural defenses become compromised, making them more susceptible to infestations. Pests such as bark beetles thrive on stressed trees, burrowing into the bark and dropping their eggs.

Similarly, infections can take hold more easily. You may notice increased signs of disease on your tree, such as cankers, wilting, or dieback in branches. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial to prevent further damage and the potential loss of the tree.

Trees Do Not Photosynthesize as Much

Just like most other plants, trees use photosynthesis to turn sunlight into energy. This process requires the use of water. However, the lack of water during a drought can disrupt this process, leading to reduced energy production.

Trees may respond by shedding leaves to conserve water, further decreasing their ability to photosynthesize. This reduction in photosynthesis means less energy is available for growth, repair, and defense against pests and disease. Over time, the cumulative effects of reduced photosynthesis can lead to a decline in overall tree health, making it more difficult for the tree to recover once the drought conditions improve.

How You Can Help Your Tree

Now that you know how drought affects trees, you will have a better understanding of how to help them survive and thrive through poor weather conditions. Review the targeted care strategies listed below to mitigate the effects of drought and support their long-term health.

Water Your Tree More Than Normal

One of the most effective ways to help your trees during a drought is to provide them with supplemental water. During this process, you should perform deep watering so the tree’s roots will sink deeper into the ground and find the moisture it needs. This will allow it to be more prepared for future droughts. You may even want to use a drip irrigation system for this process.

Water early in the morning or in the evening to minimize evaporation and ensure the water reaches the roots. Keep in mind that different tree species have varying water needs, so adjust your watering schedule accordingly. For example, you may find that your younger trees need more water than your older ones.

Avoid Fertilizing Them

While it may seem counterintuitive, choosing to fertilize your trees during a drought can make conditions worse. Your fertilizer may feature ingredients that can escalate dehydration and exacerbate the effects of drought stress.

Instead of fertilizing, focus on providing adequate water and maintaining proper soil moisture levels. This will allow you to provide your tree with the assistance it needs instead of contributing to its health decline.

Replace the Nearby Grass with Mulch

You can also help your tree during a drought by replacing the grass around it with mulch. Grass can steal the water and nutrients from your trees, so removing it will advance the health of the tree by allowing more resources to reach the tree’s roots.

In addition, adding mulch will help retain soil moisture, moderate soil temperature, and reduce evaporation. Lay down mulch starting from an area around the base of the tree and extend it out to the drip line.

However, do not apply any mulch to the tree’s trunk. This can have unwanted side effects, such as rot and insect infestations. Proper mulching can significantly enhance the tree’s ability to withstand drought stress and maintain overall health.

Get Professional Help

You should also enlist a professional tree service when dealing with drought-stressed trees. Certified arborists have the expertise to examine your trees and advise you on restoring their health. Their extensive expertise allows them to provide targeted treatments to address issues such as stress or disease.

Although you may feel the temptation to restore your tree’s vitality on your own, professionals can ensure that your trees receive the best possible support during these challenging times. Their services will also increase your tree’s likelihood of long-term survival.

Now that you understand how a drought can affect your trees, you can do a better job of recognizing drought-related issues. If you need professional assistance in returning your tree to full strength, contact All Around Arbor Tree Service today. Our professionals specialize in various treatment services, including relieving drought stress, and can work with you to administer an effective treatment plan for your tree.