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Author: Lou DiToro

Unlock Cooler Cities Now:Essential Tips for Tackling Urban Heat Islands

Written by Lou DiToro on . Posted in Blog.

New England is America’s second-most urbanized area, with more than 80% of its people living in cities. While cities provide New England residents with many benefits, they also experience higher-than-average temperatures and more intense heat extremes. A 2020 study, for example, showed that average temperatures in Providence’s less-vegetated neighborhoods could be more than 12 degrees hotter than well-vegetated areas like the city’s East Side. The increase is likely the result of the urban heat island effect (UHI).

Climate change often worsens the UHI effect, creating hot spots in cities lacking sufficient tree canopy density. As global temperatures rise because of climate change, a city’s baseline temperature increases, intensifying the already elevated conditions. Climate change also increases the frequency of heat waves, further intensifying the effect. Trees, however, are a natural solution to mitigating UHI. They help combat UHI by increasing a city’s canopy density, creating a cooler, more comfortable environment.

Factors Impacting the UHI Effect

Cities often become hotter than surrounding rural areas due to replacing natural land cover with heat-absorbing surfaces like pavement and buildings. These surfaces soak up solar radiation and release it as heat during the day, raising urban temperatures. Other factors influencing UHI include reduced vegetation/green spaces, city traffic, air conditioning, tall buildings, and narrow streets.

These factors can have profound effects on cities and urban residents, including:

• Increased energy consumption
• Elevated air pollution levels
• Higher heat-related illnesses
• Increased respiratory issues
• Decreased quality of life
• Increased infrastructure risk
• Increased ground-level ozone (smog)

UHI impacts those with the least access to financial resources and those dealing with additional health conditions more than other groups. For instance, seniors, children, and those with per-existing conditions are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. It also impacts poorer communities, often with less green space and more heat-absorbing surfaces.

Keep in mind that average temperatures in some areas, however, vary from year to year. Even within a city, temperatures vary depending on proximity to the coast, green spaces, and the urban heat island effect. Plus, the Northeast can be pretty humid in the summer. Meanwhile, climate change isn’t helping.

Combating Urban Heating Island Effect

Combining UHI starts with having sufficient tree canopy—the layer of leaves, branches, and stems of trees covering the ground when viewed from above. It provides various cooling mechanisms that help reduce UHI, including evapotranspiration. This process triggers water uptake by roots and releases it through leaves, cooling the surrounding air and lowering ambient temperatures. A sufficient tree canopy also blocks solar radiation, reduces the heat absorbed by surfaces, alters wind patterns to provide cooling breezes, and reduces the surface temperature of pavements and roofs, among other things.

Tree canopy is a crucial component of urban planning. Some cities, however, lack sufficient canopy density. Tree canopy density in Warwick, Pawtucket, and Cranston, for instance, ranges from about 20% to 30%. Providence’s is more than 27%, with 3,221 acres of land and more than 415,000 trees. What’s the ideal canopy density? In the past, it was thought that 40% was the ideal goal density. Today, sufficient tree canopy depends on the context. What’s ideal for a desert city will differ from that of a city in a forested region.

Strategic Steps in Confronting UHI

The combined effects of UHI and climate change generate more intense heat waves and higher average temperatures in cities, boosting health risks and increasing energy consumption. As in Providence, increased investment in urban forestry initiatives is a key strategy for creating more resilient and sustainable cities in the face of climate change. Below are some steps cities can take to combat UHI.

• Species selection—Choose tree species that adapt well to the urban environment (e.g., drought-tolerant and pollution-resistant). Selecting tree species with large canopies and high evapotranspiration rates is critical. Key species include white oak, red maple, river birch, Gingko biloba, American hornbeam, Sweetbay magnolia, and Serviceberry.

• Tree Placement and Planting Design—This step requires strategic planting near buildings, streets, and other heat-generating surfaces. The goal is to create “urban forests” or green corridors to maximize cooling benefits.

• Urban Forest Management—Proper tree care, including watering, pruning, and pest management, ensures tree health and longevity. Community involvement in urban forestry initiatives also helps. See RI Tree’s website for more information on tree care.

The Urban Heat Island effect is a real challenge for some cities. Climate change isn’t making things any easier for these cities. Now is a good time to start thinking about combating these phenomena by increasing tree canopy. However, how much tree canopy you’ll need depends on where you live. Don’t focus on a specific percentage for tree canopy. Instead, assess your city’s needs, set realistic goals, focus on equitable tree distribution, and prioritize tree health.

Understanding the UHI effect, however, can lessen its impact on urban residents and the surrounding environment. Mitigating UHI is crucial for creating more sustainable and comfortable cities. Strategies like planting trees, using reflective materials, and designing buildings for better ventilation can help combat this growing problem.

For more information on how to boost tree canopy, feel free to contact one of our consultants at RI Tree.org.

Five Must-Read Tree Guides!

Written by Lou DiToro on . Posted in Tree Care.

Rachel Carson’s “Silent Spring” is proof that books can change the world. Published in 1962, this classic alerted us to the dangers of pesticides, especially DDT. Using science and facts, Carson shows that pesticides poison wildlife, contaminate food chains, and generate unforeseen consequences.  It was a powerful and influential book that helped launch the environmental era. It makes for a compelling read.

Below are six books on tree care that have made an impact:

  1. “The Hidden Life of Trees” by Peter Wohlleben: This book revolutionized public perception of trees, showcasing their complex social and emotional lives. It sparked a global interest in forest ecology and inspired a greater appreciation for the intricate workings of these vital organisms.
  2. “The Nature and Properties of Soils” by N.M. Comber: Though not solely focused on trees, this book significantly advanced our understanding of soil science, a crucial factor in tree health and growth. Its impact on agricultural practices has indirectly benefited tree care and forest management.
  3. “Arboriculture: Care of Trees, Shrubs, and Vines in the Landscape” by Michael Dirr: A foundational text in arboriculture, this book has educated generations of arborists and tree care professionals. Its comprehensive approach has significantly improved tree care practices worldwide.
  4. “The Tree Expert” by John M. Harris: This classic text provides in-depth information on tree identification, physiology, pathology, and care practices. Its comprehensive information and practical advice make it an invaluable resource for professional arborists and home gardeners, empowering them with the knowledge they need to care for trees effectively.
  5. “Arboriculture: Care of Trees, Shrubs, and Vines in the Landscape” by Michael Dirr: A foundational text in arboriculture, this book has educated generations of arborists and tree care professionals. Its comprehensive approach has significantly improved tree care practices worldwide.
    This list offers a diverse selection of books to suit different interests and levels of expertise. Whether you’re a casual tree lover or a professional arborist, these books can deepen your understanding and appreciation of these magnificent organisms.
    For more information on tree care books that make an impact, see our blog post on the subject.

7 Tips on Winter-proofing Young Trees

Written by Lou DiToro on . Posted in Tree Care.

Young trees are the key to a healthy, thriving urban landscape. But they face many

 challenges in winter. Extreme cold can cause a tree’s tissue to freeze, split, and die. Newly planted trees are especially susceptible to extreme cold. Other winter challenges are desiccation (drying out), sunburn, rodents, and ice and snow damage.

Young trees are more vulnerable in winter than mature trees because of their thin bark, shallow roots, and lack of developed defenses. Here are some of the more severe winter threats to young trees:

  • Snow and ice damage
  • Freezing temperatures
  • Desiccation (drying out)
  • Sunburn (aka sunscald)
  • Rodent damage

Being proactive is the key to protecting young trees in winter. Use the seven actions below to take control of young trees.

  1. Tree Wraps: Thin bark wrapped around the trunks of young trees protects them from sunscald and frost damage. Wrap your trees in late fall before the first hard frost. 
  2. Mulch—Apply 2-4 inches of mulch around the tree’s base, out to the drip line (the outermost edge of the canopy where water drips off the leaves).
  3. Watering—Water young trees before the ground freezes. Well-watered trees are better equipped for winter. Don’t over water young trees; soggy soil can cause problems.
  4. Pruning—Don’t prune in late fall or early winter. Prune in late winter or early spring when trees are dormant. Remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches and branches crossing or rubbing against each other.
  5. Inspect trees—Look for pests or diseases and act accordingly. Winter is a great time to treat trees for specific pests that overwinter in the soil or on the tree.  
  6. Staking—You may need to stake some young trees. If you stake your trees, make the stakes loose enough to allow trunk movement in the wind. Make sure the stakes are about a foot away.
  7. Snow Removal—Wet, heavy snow is bad for young trees. Gently shake the branches to remove excess snow. Don’t jerk or pull the branches.  

Now that you know how to winterize young trees, be proactive and take steps now to protect them in winter. If you have questions about winterizing young trees, contact a registered arborist or one of our experts at RITree.

RI Tree Announces Site for Arbor Day 2025

Written by Lou DiToro on . Posted in Article.

RI Tree recently announced the date and site for its Arbor Day 2025 celebration, which will be held at the Providence Country Day (PCD) School, East Providence, RI, on April 25th, starting at 11:00 a.m. The event includes a tree-planting ceremony on PCD grounds, lunch, speakers, and a Tree City USA Awards presentation to the host communities. Tulips, London planes, and elm trees will also be planted on PCD’s grounds as part of a school reforestation effort.
This year’s celebration will be the state’s 138th. Arbor Day recognizes the importance of trees, which provide numerous benefits to residents, including purifying the air, helping cool the earth, boosting property values, and soothing the human psyche. Trees also beautify where we live, work, and play and slow and absorb stormwater, saving taxpayers millions of dollars in annual flood damage and treatment costs.
For more details or questions about this year’s Arbor Day, contact RITree at 401-764-5885 or email ritree@ritree.org.

Use These Tips to Dispose of Your Christmas Tree Responsibly

Written by Lou DiToro on . Posted in Blog.

Disposing of Christmas trees after the holiday is a challenge. Many pros and cons exist for buying a real tree. Growing Christmas trees, for example, absorbs atmospheric carbon dioxide, which is good for the planet. Real Christmas trees are also renewable when sourced from sustainable tree farms. Plus, real trees are biodegradable.

Real trees also can be composted or chipped for mulch, returning nutrients to the soil. What’s more, buying from local sources supports local businesses. If you have an artificial tree, it can be used for many years, reducing the need for repeated tree purchases. Plus, it avoids the waste associated with single-use trees.

But real Christmas trees have downsides. Transporting them from farms to stores creates a significant carbon footprint. Trucks and other vehicles that burn fossil fuels are required to deliver the trees. Cutting down trees at a tree farm also contributes to deforestation if they are not responsibly sourced.

If improperly disposed of in landfills, real trees can decompose and release methane, a potent greenhouse gas. If you favor artificial trees, disposing of them involves high energy consumption and using harmful chemicals. If made from plastic, they can be challenging to recycle and often end up in landfill.

Disposing of Christmas Trees Responsibly

Which approach is better? It all depends. Ultimately, the most environmentally conscious choice depends on individual circumstances and priorities. Ideally, you want to minimize your environmental impact by buying trees from reputable sources or buying sustainably produced artificial trees. Use your Christmas tree for as long as possible, and then dispose of your tree properly. Below are some tips on doing that.

Here are several options that involve giving your Christmas tree a new role:

• Use it as firewood —You can cut it up and use it as firewood. But the wood may still be wet, so use it only in an outdoor fire pit and only when the wood is dry. Using it indoors otherwise is a fire hazard.

• Recycle it as winter mulch—Leave the tree in your yard for the winter. It can provide much-needed shelter for small animals and birds. In the spring, chop it up and use it for mulch.

• Make it a bird feeder — Place it in its stand outdoors. Then, fill some bird feeders and hang them from the tree’s boughs. You can also drape the tree with a swag of pine cones coated with peanut butter.

• Protect plants with it — The winter is hard on tender plants. Cut a few branches or boughs from the tree and cover your tender plants for the winter. The branches will protect them from the season’s harshness.

• Add Christmas freshness to your home — Strip the tree’s pine needles and make a sachet of them. Then, hide them around the bathroom and kitchen for some cheerful fragrance.

Additional Tree Disposal Options

Many Rhode Island cities and towns offer curbside pickup during designated weeks in January. This option is easy, but check your local municipality’s website or sanitation department for pickup dates and guidelines. Providence, for instance, will collect trees on its regular trash pickup day in January. Check with the Department of Public Works for when the program starts and ends. The pickup period ran from January 3rd to 20th last year.

Remove everything from the tree before putting it out. The Rhode Island Resource Recovery Corporation (RIRRC) has an online guide with detailed information on when cities and towns pick up trees. You can also bring the trees directly to the Johnston facility. RIRRC grinds the trees and adds them to a composting operation that produces 40,000 tons annually.

Trees for Trout Program
Another popular option is to donate the tree to the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) Division of Fish and Wildlife for its Trees for Trout program. RI DEM partners with Trout Unlimited Rhode Island Chapter on this program, which uses donated trees to build fish habitats in rivers and streams. This effort restores the water bodies and gives trout and other aquatic animals a place to hide from predators.
The next collection event for the Trees for Trout program is on Saturday, January 4th, 2025, from 10 am to 2 pm at the Arcadia Check Station in Exeter, RI. You can find more information about the program on the DEM website or the Rhode Island Chapter of Trout Unlimited website.
Christmas is a great time of the year. But once it’s over, you must do something with your tree. If your municipality provides that service, you can always put it on the curb for trash pickup. But if that option doesn’t appeal to you, you can use the tree better by giving it another role. Use the tips above to make that happen.

Latest Update on Beech Leaf Disease in New England

Written by Lou DiToro on . Posted in Blog.

Beech trees are a keystone species in many ecosystems. Their fruit – the beechnut – is a food source for many animals, including squirrels, deer, birds, and bears. Their canopies shelter animals and provide nesting sites for birds. Their wood is solid and hard with a beautiful grain. Beeches are also famous for their fall foliage and smooth bark. Plus, they have some cultural significance. Ancient people used their bark as paper.

But beeches are under attack now from Beech Leaf Disease (BLD), a deadly disorder that threatens native American beeches and ornamental European beeches. Researchers first detected BLD in Ohio in 2012. It then spread to other states and Canada. It’s now in 12 U.S. states and several Canadian provinces. Researchers found BLD in CT in 2019 and RI and MA in 2020. BLD is especially deadly to young beech trees and the ecosystems they support.

What is Beech Leaf Disease?

Nematodes cause BLD. These microscopic worms (Litylenchus crenatae mccannii) spend the winter in beech buds and beech leaves and emerge in the spring, showing damage to the tree. Infected leaves have dark brown bands between leaf veins or are crinkled, smaller, and leathery than typical beech leaves. Symptoms are more noticeable on North American beeches than on European beeches.

Some beech buds won’t open on heavily infected trees. Severely damaged leaves will fall off soon after emerging in May. New leaves may appear in June in new buds and won’t show signs of the disease, but they will be paler and weaker than typical healthy leaves. Wind plays a big role in spreading the disease. So does the movement of infected plant material like firewood or nursery stock. BLD can spread fast in a forest

Impact of Beech Leaf Disease

Researchers are seeing beeches die within 6-12 years of infection. In Southern New England, beeches often die within a few years of infection. The disease’s effects on trees are critical. Like many tree diseases, BLD reduces photosynthesis and growth and increases susceptibility to other pests and diseases that can kill trees. BLD also causes loss of biodiversity and alteration of the forest ecosystem. Plus, it impacts the timber industry and tourism.

Researchers are working on management solutions for BLD. But there isn’t a cost-effective solution for forested environments yet. There are no effective fungicides for BLD, and treating large mature trees is difficult. Management options are limited but include the following:

  • Early detection and removal of infected trees
  • Development of resistant beech tree varieties
  • Biological control agents
  • Public awareness and education campaigns

In 2017, Ohio researchers had some success managing the disease by treating the soil around small beech trees (about 2-4 inches deep) with a phosphite product called PolyPhosphite 30. Phosphite products are known to stimulate a plant’s defenses.

The researchers treated the trees twice a month with the product about a month apart. The trees were much better after five years than the untreated control trees. They also found fewer nematodes on treated trees than on control trees. We hope to see similar results in New England.

How to Treat Beech Trees

Phosphite products for BLD are available to homeowners. Look for a product that is designed for BLD treatment. Agri-Fos and ProPhyt are good options for BLD. These products are in liquid form. Below are the seven steps to treating a BLD outbreak using a phosphite-based product and a soil drench approach:

1.     Measure the tree’s diameter at breast height—about 4.5 feet high

2.     Follow the product’s label instructions for dosage

3.     Mix the product with water according to the label

4.     Clear the area around the tree’s base of debris and leaf litter.

5.     Slowly pour the diluted phosphite solution into the soil.

6.     Let the solution soak into the root zone.

7.     Water the soil after application to help the solution penetrate deeper

Treat BLD in early spring before new growth begins. You may need to treat the area again later in the growing season. Depending on the disease’s severity and dosage instruction, you may need to treat the soil again.

You can also use a soil injection method to treat BLD. However, you need special equipment to inject phosphite into the soil around the root zone. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for injection depth and spacing.

If you still have questions about BLD or its treatment, contact an arborist or RITree.  

7 Causes of Major Plant Failure That Can Devastate Your Trees

Written by Lou DiToro on . Posted in Tree Care.

Trees fail more often than you think. Various factors can trigger failure. When that happens, the tree can pose significant risks. So, you may need to remove the tree. That can be costly.

Understanding the factors that cause major tree failure can help you save a tree. It can also boost awareness for better tree care practices.

Below are seven causes of major tree failure and how to stop them from devastating a tree. For more information on plant failure, see this blog post)

  1. Diseases— They can weaken a tree’s structure, causing it to fail. Root damage and unfavorable weather can also help with diseases. Early detection is critical. Identify the pest, choose the correct control method, and apply it.
  • Pests—They can eat away at a tree’s roots, leaves, and/or trunk. That can weaken its structure and boost its disease susceptibility. Identify the pest. Then, choose the correct treatment to eradicate the pest. You can also consult RI Tree on pests and their controls.
  • Weather—Severe weather events, like snowstorms and high winds, can cause major tree failure. Inspect your trees after severe weather events. Look for signs of damage. Proper pruning keeps trees healthy and minimizes wind resistance, improving overall health.
  • Improper planting— Planting trees too deeply, in the wrong location, or using improper techniques can generate root problems. That. in turn, can cause tree failure. You can’t do much to fix a tree planted incorrectly. You can, however, learn from your mistakes.
  • Root damage—Construction, soil compaction, and other activities can damage a tree’s roots, compromising its health and stability. Proper watering, fertilizing, and mulching can help overcome root damage.
  • Poor maintenance—Neglecting trees can lead to big problems and eventual failure. Take care of your trees. That includes regular watering, pruning, and mulching. It also includes monitoring signs of disease or pest infestation.
  • Age— Mature trees become more susceptible to failure as they age. Proper care can increase a tree’s life. Even with the best care, trees will fail. Remove the tree as soon as you can. (See our blog post on preserving older trees.)

Major tree failure happens all too often. That can cost you big time. Be mindful of the seven major causes of plant failure described above. In severe cases, consult a certified arborist or contact RITree for help. 

Transform Your Trees with These Proven Growth Management Techniques

Written by Lou DiToro on . Posted in Blog, Tree Care.

Tree growth is a complex process. It involves factors that can impact a tree’s size, shape, and health. It also involves seed germination, photosynthesis, nutrient uptake, water transport, root development, genetics, soil quality, and competition. Understanding how these factors work together can help you boost tree growth and help you grow robust, healthy trees with long lifespans.

Managing tree growth effectively delivers numerous benefits. Well-managed trees shade us in the summer, conserve energy, cut maintenance costs, and reduce noise pollution—all while capturing and storing carbon dioxide and improving air quality. Manage growth also boosts a tree’s lifespan, enhances its appearance, and optimizes growth. Plus, it protects people and the environment.

But managing tree growth can be challenging. Below, we discuss several key factors that dramatically impact tree growth and provide proven tips on managing it effectively.

Brief Overview of Primary Tree Growth

Trees go through two growth periods—primary growth and secondary growth. Primary growth provides the tree’s structure and determines a tree’s height and overall shape. It occurs at the tips of the tree’s roots and shoots, an area known as the plant’s apical meristems. Cells in this area quickly divide and produce new cells. They then elongate, causing the root or shoot to lengthen.

Other cells in this area become specialized tissues like the xylem, which transports water. Then there are those cells that turn into the tree’s phloem, which transports nutrients. Meanwhile, the root system expands to anchor the tree, and the shoot system grows upward to capture sunlight for photosynthesis. These activities prepare the tree for its secondary growth period.

Secondary Tree Growth Boosts Girth

Secondary growth occurs in woody plants. It produces new wood and bark, increasing the plant’s girth or diameter. Secondary growth is primarily due to two types of meristematic tissues: the vascular cambium and the cork cambium. The vascular cambium produces xylem cells towards the inside, forming annual growth rings.
The vascular cambium produces phloem cells towards the outside, which become part of the inner bark. The cork cambium, meanwhile, produces cork cells, forming the outer bark, which protects the tree. Over time, the tree’s trunk and branches become thicker and more robust as secondary growth occurs.
Other processes that occur during secondary growth include:

• Photosynthesis
• Nutrient uptake
• Water transport
• Leaf growth
• Branching
• Root development
These processes are all interconnected. Genetics, environmental conditions, and competition also influence tree growth.

Tips on Managing Tree Growth Rate

While you can’t alter a tree’s growth rate much, you can still influence growth to some extent through proper tree care. Here are some activities that can help you promote healthy tree growth:

• Make sure the tree receives sufficient sunlight, water, and nutrients
• Provide the right type and amount of fertilizer based on soil tests
• Prune dead, diseased, or crossing branches to improve light penetration and air circulation while the tree grows
• Protect the tree from pests and diseases, which will prevent growth setbacks

Here are some factors that slow growth:
• Reduce watering, especially during dormant periods.
• Prune lightly. Heavy pruning can temporarily slow growth, so avoiding excessive pruning is essential.
• Carefully pruning roots can restrict nutrient and water uptake. However, this is a complex technique best left to professionals.
• Some chemical growth regulators can be used, but their application requires expertise and caution.
• Always consider the tree’s health and species-specific needs when managing a tree’s growth rate. Excessive manipulation can harm the tree.
Managing tree growth takes time and patience but pays off in the long run. Managed growth benefits you, the tree, and the environment. So, take this task seriously, regardless of the species of tree you have. If you need help managing the growth of one of your trees, don’t hesitate to contact RI Tree. Its experts can help you create a plan for your tree to boost its health and growth.

Save Your Plants Now! Combat Plant Drought Stress with these 5 Tips

Written by Lou DiToro on . Posted in Blog, Tree Care.

Plants are remarkably resilient. They can survive numerous plant diseases and other deadly threats. Yet even the most adaptable plant can succumb to drought stress, which typically occurs during July and August, the year’s hottest months. Characterized by a complex interplay of physiological and biochemical processes, drought stress upsets the delicate balance within a plant. Knowing what drought stress is and how it impacts plants can help you develop effective strategies for protecting plants.

Protecting plants from drought stress can boost their well-being, enhance their lives, and increase the soil’s health. It can also conserve water usage and lessen the need for harmful pesticides. If you’re a farmer, protecting plants from drought stress can lead to better crops, an increase in a crop’s food self-sufficiency, and a farm’s profits. Below, we discuss drought stress and its impacts on a plant’s life and provide proven tips on protecting your plants from this deadly event.

What is Plant Drought Stress?

Drought stress occurs when plants lack enough water to meet their needs. This deficiency can happen due to several factors, including:
• Lack of rainfall: This is the most common cause of plant drought stress.
• High temperatures: Hot weather increases evaporation rates, so plants lose water more quickly.
• Windy conditions: Wind can accelerate water loss from plants.
• Shallow watering: If you only water the soil’s surface, the roots won’t be encouraged to grow deeper and access more moisture reserves.
• Poor soil drainage: If water drains away too quickly, the roots won’t have enough time to absorb it.
• Plant type: Some plants are naturally more drought-tolerant than others.
The intensity and duration of the drought, as well as the specific plant species, determine its impact on plants.
Effect of Drought Stress on Plants

Droughts can impact a plant in several ways. They can stunt its growth, cause its leaves to wilt and drop off, and reduce its ability to produce food. It can also increase a plant’s susceptibility to diseases and pests, damaging its health in the long term. Many plants, however, have built-in defenses to help them survive a drought, including growing roots deeper, closing stomata to conserve water, and reducing CO2 intake.

Tips on Combatting Plant Drought Stress

Maintaining moist soil is the key to avoiding plant injury. Here are a few helpful tips for dealing with drought stress.

  1. Water deeply and less frequently: Instead of shallow, daily watering, give your plants a long, deep soak every few days. This deep soak encourages the roots to grow deeper into the soil, where they can tap more moisture reserves. Aim to wet the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches.
  2. Water early in the morning: Watering your plants early in the morning allows the water to soak into the soil before the heat of the day, which can cause evaporation.
  3. Mulch around your plants: Mulch is a material layer, such as wood chips, bark, or straw, spread around the base of plants. It helps retain moisture in the soil by reducing evaporation and suppresses weeds, which compete with plants for water.
  4. Group plants together: Grouping plants together helps create a more humid microclimate and conserve water. Taller plants can also shade shorter plants, helping to reduce water loss.
  5. Choose drought-tolerant plants: When planting new plants, consider choosing varieties known to be drought-tolerant, such as Paperbark Maple, American Hornbeam, Kousa Dogwood, Washington Hawthorne, and American Sweetgum. Additional drought-tolerant plants include Russian Sage, Lilacs, Black-eyed Susan, Lavender, and Coneflower. These plants are typically adapted to drier conditions and require less water.

You can also use gator bags to deliver water to trees effectively and efficiently during summer. Gator bags, also known as slow-release watering bags or tree watering bags, deliver water slowly and directly to the roots of trees or shrubs. They’re most beneficial for newly planted trees and shrubs but may not work for plants with extensive root systems. The size of the gator bag should be appropriate for the size of the plant. Drain the bag completely during cold weather to prevent freezing and potential damage.

Plants are remarkably resistant—no doubt about it. But drought stress can badly damage many plant species. Our tips to combat drought stress can help plants survive the heat. They’ll benefit your plants, the environment, and your wallet. Remember them whenever it gets hot.

Cultivating Bonsai Trees: 8 Proven Tips  

Written by Lou DiToro on . Posted in Tree Stewards.

Cultivating Bonsai trees offers something other tree care activities don’t: It combines aesthetic appeal, stress reduction, and a connection to nature. This combination makes growing Bonsai trees a highly rewarding addition to your home or hobby.

But cultivating Bonsai trees has its challenges—challenges growers need to overcome to grow a beautiful, robust tree. It also takes patience and dedication. Below are eight tips that can help you grow great Bonsai trees.

  1. Choose the right tree—If you plan to keep the tree indoors, select a species that thrives there. Ficus, juniper, and Schefflera are good choices for Bonsai trees.
  2. Lighting—Bonsai trees need ample indirect sunlight, say about 5 to 6 hours daily, whether the tree is indoors or outdoors. Lack of sunlight can cause weak foliage and other tree problems. 
  3. Watering—Bonsai trees come in small pots, so they dry up quickly. Water your bonsai trees deeply when the soil feels dry to the touch. 
  4. Soil—Use a well-draining bonsai soil mix that allows for good aeration and prevents root rot. A suitable mixture for most trees is Akadama, pumice, and lava rock in a 1:1:1 ratio.
  5. Fertilizing—Bonsai trees need fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer) but sparingly. Use a balanced bonsai fertilizer according to the package instructions. 
  6. Pruning—Regular pruning is essential for maintaining the size and shape of your bonsai. Prune leaves and branches throughout the growing season. 
  7. Repotting—Repot your bonsai every 2-3 years or when the roots become pot-bound. Use a slightly larger pot with fresh bonsai soil mix. Also, place a layer of soil in the pot before positioning.
  8. Wiring—You can use aluminum or copper wire to shape the branches of your bonsai tree. However, wiring should be done carefully to avoid damaging the bark.

Cultivating Bonsai trees can be challenging at first. But with patience, dedication, and the tips described above, you can cultivate a tree that transforms your space for years.