If hot summer days are leaving you thirsty, chances are your street trees need some water too. Scorching temperatures and dry conditions threaten the lives of Missoula’s street trees, according to Urban Forestry Program Specialist Marie DuCharme. “Extreme heat can severely damage and even kill trees if they don’t get enough water.”
“Urban trees need consistent supplemental watering during hot, dry weather,” DuCharme said. “Without help from residents, we could see dozens of mature, shade-providing trees damaged due to heat and drought conditions.”
Along with cooling shade, properly maintained street trees increase property values, filter pollutants, and lower ambient temperatures. But the tree’s roots, branches and leaves suffer in hot, parched conditions.
Photo courtesy of Missoula Tree Preservation
To save our urban forest, DuCharme urges residents to deeply water boulevard trees near their homes two to three times per week. Normal lawn sprinkling doesn’t give trees the hydration they need. Focus watering at the canopy’s edges so it reaches the thirsty roots.
Newly planted trees require extra care. Water them slowly and deeply near their canopies every two days during their first three summers to encourage healthy root growth.
Proper watering preserves the benefits trees provide, like shading homes, cleaning air and water, and boosting curb appeal, DuCharme said. “Together, we can help our neighborhood trees survive summer heat and ensure Missoula’s urban forest continues to thrive for years to come.”
Residents can learn more about boulevard tree care at www.missoulaparks.org/trees. Contact the Urban Forestry Division at citytrees@ci.missoula.mt.us or 406-552-6253 for more information on city tree ordinances, which require property owners to water and maintain boulevard trees adjacent to their property.