The hot and dry climate of Colorado can be tough on trees, and regular watering is essential for their survival. Without enough water, trees can become stressed and susceptible to disease and pests. In this article, we'll take a look at the importance of watering trees in the Colorado climate and provide some tips for keeping your trees healthy and hydrated.
One of the main benefits of regular watering is that it helps trees absorb the nutrients they need to grow and thrive. Trees absorb water through their roots, and when the soil is dry, the roots have a harder time accessing the water they need. This can lead to slow growth and a lack of vigor in the tree. Additionally, water is crucial for the tree's overall health as it helps transport nutrients throughout the tree.
Another important factor to consider when watering trees in Colorado is the heat. During the summer months, temperatures can soar, and without enough water, trees can become quickly dehydrated. This can cause the leaves to wilt and the tree to lose its ability to photosynthesize, which is the process by which it converts sunlight into energy. Additionally, when a tree is dehydrated, it is more susceptible to pests and diseases.
So, how much water do trees need, and when is the best time to water them? The amount of water a tree needs will vary depending on the species and the age of the tree. As a general rule, measure the trees diameter at breats height and multilply by 10...that number represents the number of gallons the tree needs when you water it. It's best to water trees deeply and infrequently rather than watering them shallowly and frequently. A deep watering will encourage the roots to grow deeper into the soil, which will help the tree to withstand dry periods.
The best time to water trees is early in the morning or in the evening, when the temperatures are cooler. This allows the water to be absorbed by the roots before the heat of the day causes it to evaporate. Additionally, it's important to avoid watering the leaves of the tree as this can lead to fungal growth and leaf disease.
Here at Colorado Premier Tree Care we visit ALOT of trees in Cenntential, Highlands Ranch, and Littleton. The number one problem people have with their trees is that they don't water enough. Keep in mind that the location of the tree also plays dictates how much and how offten you should water the tree too...South side of the yard is very hot as compared to the tree on the north side of the house.
If you're planting a new tree please consider reaching out and asking us what to plant. There are species that do very well with less water in our hot and dry climate. Planting the right tree can and will reduce your water footprint so keep that in mind ! I'd read the article about some of the best trees to plant. Just a hint ! Cheers Denver !