Post-Drought Care for Trees

As you have no doubt already heard, the Georgia Environmental Protection Division has recently called an official end to the drought that has plagued Georgians for almost two years. Recognizing that our trees and shrubs may need much more time to recover from the dry years, Trees Atlanta has released some advice for caring for post-drought care of your trees.

Stephen Johnston, Vice President and Division Manager of Bartlett Tree Experts, warns plant-owners who may be inclined to move tree care lower on their list of priorities that trees and shrubs may continue to feel the effects of the drought, despite the record levels of rainfall that our state is experiencing this season. According to Trees Atlanta, our trees may still be fragile and weak as a result of overexertion of their carbohydrate deposits during the drought.

Though you may not be able to see the effects of drought on your trees and shrubs immediately, these effects may manifest themselves over time. Most experts recommend that you have your trees and shrubs examined regularly by a certified arborist. In addition, make sure that your trees are getting proper care to encourage maximum growth, including irrigation that provides at least 1 inch of water per week, mulching that covers the ground around the tree in a 2 inch-thick layer, soil nutrient management as assessed by your County Extension Service, pruning to remove dead limbs that may harbor disease, and pest control.

For more information about maintaining and improving the health of your trees and shrubs, contact the Georgia Urban Forest Council, Georgia Arborist Association, or Trees Atlanta.