Drought care for young trees - tips for keeping them healthy

As the drought continues our urban forest needs extra care

NEWS RELEASE - Distributed July 10, 2015 1:30 PM

Summary

While the City of Nanaimo is doing its part to carry out water conservation, it is also endeavouring to care for the community's urban forest. The public can use the same steps to care for their trees while also saving water.

The first step is to know your watering days. Even numbered houses can water on Wednesdays and Saturdays, while odd numbered houses can water on Thursdays and Sundays. Secondly, adding a thick layer of composted mulch around the base of your young trees will help retain the moisture in the soil and protect the roots. Finally, young trees only require 10 to 20 litres (approximately 4 to 8 imperial gallons) of water twice a week.

Water can also be saved by using water bags around trees. The City of Nanaimo uses water bags on its boulevard trees. Water bags are very efficient and can be purchased commercially for home owners. An alternative method is to drill a small hole (1/8") near the bottom of a 10 to 20 litre bucket, place it near the base of your tree and fill it with the specified amount of water. The water will slowly drip into the soil and keep your tree happy and healthy.

Link to Strategic Plan: This watering program is supported by Module 3 of the Urban Forest Management Strategy

Key Points

The first two years are vital for the survival of young trees.
Young trees require approximately 10 - 15 gallons of water per week.

Quotes

"Deep watering of young trees is critical for their survival. These trees become the foundation of urban forest renewal and if maintained properly at this time, will provide strong healthy trees that will thrive for generations providing a multitude of environmental, social and economic benefits."

Alan Kemp

Urban Forest Coordinator

City of Nanaimo

-30-

Contact:

Alan Kemp

Urban Forestry Coordinator

City of Nanaimo

250 755 4460 loc 4357

alan.kemp@nanaimo.ca

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