Young trees need water during cold, dry spells

By Kris Day

Do your new tree a favor by giving it a long, slow drink when a cold, dry spell is upon us—especially if it’s evergreen!

Believe it or not, trees can suffer the effects of “drought” even during a Portland winter if their root systems aren’t yet adequate to replace water lost to cold, drying winds.

It’s best to water ahead of windy or freezing weather, but even afterwards can still helpful. Just make sure to apply water when the temperature is above freezing so it doesn’t turn to ice before getting into your tree’s root zone.

–Day is Neighborhood Trees & Green Space Initiative Senior Specialist at Friends of Trees. She is also an ISA Certified Arborist.