The heat and lack of consistent rain are starting to stress trees in some parts of Michigan.
Most of the trees experiencing stress are young ones planted in the last two or three years. Others might be stressed because of the current weather conditions are those where construction might have damaged roots.
Michigan State University Extension Service says some telltale signs are leaves dropping from the trees or curling. In evergreens, look for drooping needles.
The Extension Service says the best thing you can do is water those trees once a week. But, don’t over-water them. Water one for a bit, go to the next tree and water there for a while to give the moisture time to seep into the soil around the first tree. You can go back and water that one a little more if necessary.
MSU researchers have found two to three inches of mulch is critical to reducing tree stress. It helps keep moisture in the ground and reduces the soil temperature around the roots.
The researchers advise that even if we get a little rain, keep an eye open for signs of stress on your trees.