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We’re used to seeing trees lose their leaves in the fall, but according to Pennsylvania arborist Jason Parker, district director of the Company Davey Tree ExpertAccording to Warminster’s office, this could also be a sign of something more worrying: a failing health system due to the health situation in the region. record drought period.

“Drought can definitely kill a tree or shrub,” Parker said. “So don’t ignore this and just think it’s a fall color change (and) leaf drop. It’s definitely more than that.

Unfortunately, he said, the negative effects of the region’s lingering drought may not be felt until spring.

“And if you wait until spring, it may be too late, depending on the health and condition of the tree,” Parker said. “You might be facing bigger problems at this point.” »

Ornamental trees, like dogwoods and Japanese maples, as well as evergreen trees are most vulnerable to dry conditions, while larger “shade trees,” like maples and oaks, tend to be more resistant. Late consequences may include smaller, discolored leaves or, in the case of conifers, premature needle drop.

However, there are several steps tree owners can take to prevent drought damage.

Tip #1: Water your tree deeply and regularly

Parker advises watering at least once a week by setting your hose to a trickle and letting it soak in the soil for about an hour, more or less, depending on the size of the tree.

“You want to promote that deep watering that gets the water down to where a lot of those fibrous roots are,” Parker said. “If you just water on the surface, often the water will evaporate if temperatures get too high.”

Don’t worry about overwatering, he added

“In conditions like these, you almost can’t do enough,” he said. “There are very few trees that you’re going to overwater.”