UPDATE, Sept. 25, 2017 / Seasons seem to be shifting, but the need to soak trees and shrubs remains the same during a dry spell. Thanks also to the City of Naperville for saving our ash trees along the parkways that are beginning to change to their golden canopies for fall.
Original Post, Aug. 26, 2013 / In the spirit of educating folks who value the trees integrated into daily life and the vast array of benefits they provide, the recent dry spell and return to high temperatures prompted local certified arborist Skeet to send out a handy gauge for watering.
Skeet served on the Riverwalk Commission for many years and regularly attends the Naperville Areas Homeowners Confederation monthly meetings when in session, always able and willing to share his expertise.
Sunday Skeet sent out an e-mail titled “Trees Need Water.”
“We are seeing tree damage due to the lack of water. Please pass on to community newsletters, friends, family, clients, associations and board members.”
Skeet notes that the lack of rain and high heat experienced this season creates a dangerous water deficit for trees. Root systems for urban trees are often thin and shallow and vulnerable to drying out, especially on trees in poor condition.
Here’s a little advice:
First, prioritize watering needs on your property.  Trees can be permanently damaged and may not recover, so watering ‘at risk’ trees is more important.
- Recently transplanted trees and shrubs (reduced root systems).
- Any tree that has received root or other damage.
- Susceptible species such as ash trees (Emerald Ash Borer target).
- Sensitive species such as Sugar and Norway Maple.
- Floodplain species such as Pin Oak, River Birch and Red Maple.
- Trees in planters or parking islands (limited root space).
- Trees growing outside their normal range.
- Any specimen or favored tree.
“We recommend one inch of water per week when there is no rainfall. The root zone of one large tree may spread over a 30’ x 30’ area. One inch of water over this area would require 560 gallons of water or over ten 55-gallon barrels! An open garden hose would need to run wide open for almost one hour to deliver this much water. Adding a sprinkler will cut down the flow requiring more time. A tuna can makes a perfect gauge for your sprinkler’s flow rate,” e-mailed Skeet.
Deeply soaking less often is more efficient than frequent light waterings. Soil should be allowed to dry between watering for root aeration. Soaker hoses waste less water than sprinklers, but must be moved frequently for good coverage. Watering at night or morning is best. Oscillating sprinklers work well if placed next to the trunk and directed at the dripline. Do not allow the watering stream hit the bark.
Proper mulching is the next most important thing you can do to help your trees.
Skeet says to avoid old-fashioned, chemical (salt) fertilizers in favor of organic soil care products and consult a certified arborist at the first sign of damage.
Editor’s Note: Naperville is honored with the distinction as a Tree City for its focus to create and enhance areas that can be used for the benefit and enjoyment of everyone. Trees of many different species throughout the city, its parks, schools, North Central College, Fredenhagen Park and the Riverwalk provide many opportunities for individuals to work together by volunteering to help with tree planting and ongoing education.
One more thing…If the City of Naperville plants a new tree in the parkway in front of your house, water it! If you don’t want to water it, ask a neighbor for help!
