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2023-08 Tree Watering PSA Final
2023-08 Tree Watering PSA Final
Marie Boggess
Urban Forestry Program Specialist
600 Cregg Ln.
406-552-6270
Missoula, MT 59801
[email protected]
www.missoulaparks.org
www.missoulaparks.org
“Urban trees need consistent supplemental watering during hot, dry weather," Boggess 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.
To save our urban forest, Boggess 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
water 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. Together, we can help our neighborhood trees survive this summer heatwave,
Boggess said. “Let's ensure Missoula's urban forest continues to thrive for years to come,” she added.
Residents can learn more about boulevard tree care at www.missoulaparks.org. Contact the Urban
Forestry Division at [email protected] 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.
(end)
Media note: please see attached summer tree care handout, feel free to share it on your websites or link
to it at https://www.ci.missoula.mt.us/DocumentCenter/View/67319/2023-08-Summer-Tree-Care-Flyer.
We need trees and trees need water
Missoula’s trees are a precious resource that
make our hot summers livable. Drought and
excessive heat can kill hundreds of trees
throughout Missoula County.
For the price of a coffee, trees clean our How do you know when it's time to
air, cool our homes, replenish groundwater, water? Check the soil!
improve our health, and create livable and lovable
Use a screwdriver or soil probe to check the soil at
neighborhoods. We depend on them.
least 6" deep near the drip line of your tree (the soil
beneath the farthest reaches of the tree's
Add mulch, save water branches). If the soil is hard, dry, and crumbly, add
water with a slow soak. If the soil is wet or sticky,
Adding natural wood chip mulch
allow it to dry before adding more water.
around your tree will:
Help your tree grow faster
Keep moisture in the soil What to avoid
Protect roots from extreme temperatures
Fertilizer: Adding fertilizer
Release nutrients into the soil
encourages leafy growth, which
Discourage competition from grass & weeds
requires more water.
Spread mulch in a fluffy donut shape in a 4-foot Pruning: Wait until fall to make large
diameter around your tree. Keep it 4 inches away pruning cuts.
from the trunk, and layer it 6 inches thick. Overwatering: Roots need water, but they
Rocks, decomposed granite, weed block fabric, need oxygen too. Check soil moisture before
and artificial turf will increase water runoff and watering, and water slowly to prevent wasteful
trap heat in the soil. These should not be placed runoff.
around trees.
For more tips:
web: missoulaparks.org • treesformissoula.org
phone:406-552-6253
email: [email protected]
How to water your tree responsibly
BECAU SE LAWN SPRIN KLERS WON 'T CU T IT
The easiest way to water young trees? Drill a small 1/8" hole
near the bottom of a 5-gallon bucket. Place it near the rootball,
fill it with water, and allow it to slowly drain into the soil.
You can also use a small soaker hose, drip tubing or emitters, or
a hose sprinkler on a very low setting. Avoid spraying the trunk
and expand the watering zone outward as the tree grows.
mulch
For more tips:
web: missoulaparks.org • treesformissoula.org
phone:406-552-6253
email: [email protected]