Help Out and Water a City Planted Tree

From the Richmond Tree Stewards we are reminded that the new trees in our area are sensitive to the dry weather. If the city planted or one you planted a tree yourself please make sure it is getting enough water.

Yesterday’s (Tuesday) rain was a welcome relief to many young trees, but they will need watering again after the long week-end holiday.

The city planted 2,000 new street trees this year. If one of these trees is near your home, church or business, please haul out the hose and turn on the water. Fifteen gallons a week is all it takes. Weekly watering is ideal and this is what the tree will require as the weather gets hotter. Make this a recurring item on your calendar!

Ooze tube watering devices are on some new street trees. Please don’t mow the ooze tube!

IMPORTANT! Deep watering is essential; small amounts of water may do more harm than good. It’s easy to water a tree, but it must be done correctly to be effective. The Summer Tree Care/Metro Tree Watering Alert and the Three Ways to Water Trees video on our website are good sources of information.

Thanks to all who are watering trees. By doing this you are providing shade, reducing energy costs, improving water quality and creating beauty for the future.