In addition to providing healthy tree pruning and dead tree removal services, Low Stump Tree Service can also advise on how to keep trees healthy. patty
“I would say that different species react differently to the drought,” said Xavier. “We will see, for example, that many spruce trees in the city are the most affected. And then the fir trees seem to respond well. Different pines also react differently. So it varies from species to species.”
Xavier said she has observed a significant decline in urban spruce along Wasatch Back.
FULL INTERVIEW: How to save spruces
“It seems like they are very sensitive to the drought,” she said. “I think it started about eight years ago, more than it has in the last five, and it took them about five years to show any signs. In the last three years, the stress symptoms they were showing have really increased.”
Xavier said the blue spruce is the most commonly planted spruce in the area, which is showing signs of congestion.
“The plants that we’re seeing and showing the signs are definitely more mature and were probably planted 20 or 30 years ago,” she said. “So I don’t think it’s necessarily the tree itself that’s the problem. I just think it somehow ensures that the environment it’s in continues to help promote healthy growth and encourage water retention and such. It’s not a bad tree to plant. I just think there’s something we can do to make sure it stays healthy.”
She said to watch for signs of drought or root-related stress, such as spiral diebacks on branches. It is also important that trees get the water they need.
“What’s really important in the watering schedule is not to use large amounts, which you don’t think will drive up the water bill, but rather large amounts so that the water can only reach the roots infrequently, like once a month,” said Xavier. “With mature trees, you just have to soak it really well to make sure the roots get moisture, and then it’s allowed to dry out in between and it stays that way. Small amounts and frequent watering actually put more strain on the tree because the roots only get a taste of the water and then it dries up very quickly.”
She said if proactive measures aren’t taken with watering or fertilizing, it’s likely a dying tree will have to be felled for safety. When considering replanting, she suggests trying a different species of tree, such as a fir or pine.
www.kpcw.org
https://www.kpcw.org/environment/2023-06-13/can-dying-spruce-trees-be-brought-back-to-life
