Q: I bought my house 10 years ago, and my trees have been getting more and more stressed recently. Why is that?

A: You bought your house 10 years ago and never changed the landscape timer settings. Young trees and established trees have very different needs. If your timer still runs the same schedule you set when the yard was new, you’re likely overwatering some areas and underwatering root zones that have expanded. Trees planted a decade ago now have root systems extending well beyond the trunk dripline; adjust emitters and run times to match the current canopy and root system.

 

Q: What about mulch? I keep hearing about arborist chips.

A: Arborist wood chips are one of the best things you can put around trees and shrubs. They improve soil structure, moderate temperature swings, and suppress weeds, all while slowly releasing organic matter. Properly applied chips mimic forest floor conditions and encourage healthy microbial activity and mycorrhizal relationships — benefiting roots directly. Many homeowners see water needs drop by more than half once a generous layer of arborist chips is installed because mulch reduces evaporation and improves infiltration. BEWARE- They do not look like beauty bark, change your design expectations!

 

Q: How often should I water?

A: Think deep and slow rather than short and frequent. Short cycles encourage surface roots and stress during heat. For established trees in many climates, a single deep soak once a week is more effective. Depending on soil type and emitter flow, that can mean very long run times—often 12 to 20 hours—to fully saturate the root zone to the optimal depth. Use low-flow bubblers or soaker lines and check soil moisture with a probe. Don't be afraid to get your fingers dirty. Test the soil yourself to detect water- don't rely on fancy schmancy technology- Use your "digit"al moisture o-meter.

 

Q: Any mulch tips?

A: Keep mulch 2–4 inches deep, avoid piling against trunks (volcano mulching), and extend the mulch bed to at least the dripline. Combine proper mulch with adjusted irrigation and you’ll have healthier trees that use far less water.

 

New Day Arborist is a locally owned and operated full-service tree care business.  The owner, Garrett Day grew up in Ridgefield and has lived in SW Washington his whole life.  “We focus on high-quality tree care, from pruning to removals, stump grinding, and consultation. Our goal is to provide the best service to people who value their trees.  New Day Arborist- Happy Trees, Happy People.”