Caring for Trees During Hot Weather

News Article

Essential Tips from Portland Parks & Recreation's Urban Forestry Department

(Portland, Oregon) -

As the temperature remains high this summer, it is crucial for our community to come together and ensure the well-being of the city's beloved trees. Trees are not only a vital part of Portland's aesthetic charm; they also play a critical role in combating climate change and providing essential shade and habitat.

Trees are an investment and giving them proper maintenance and care will ensure their longevity.Portland Parks & Recreation's Urban Forestryteam is pleased to provide valuable insights on how to care for trees during scorching hot days.

A spectacular large tree in Southeast Portland. Trees help keep Portland green and healthy. They offer shade; lower temperatures in homes and neighborhoods; provide wildlife habitat, beauty, and cleaner air; and help mitigate the effects of climate change.

1. Hydration is Key: Just like human beings, trees need water to survive the summer heat. During extended periods of high temperatures, it's important to water trees adequately. Provide a deep, slow watering at the base of the tree to ensure moisture reaches the roots. Water in the early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation.

2. Mulching Matters: Applying a layer of organic mulch around the base of trees can greatly benefit them during hot weather. Mulch helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Make sure the mulch is spread evenly but keep it three inches away from the tree trunk.

3. Pruning Wisely: Prune trees to remove poorly connected branches and to train the tree for street and sidewalk clearances. Pruning allows trees to focus their energy on healthy growth. Wait two or three years to prune newly planted trees. However, during heat waves, avoid extensive pruning as it can stress the tree further.

4. Shielding from the Sun: Young or newly planted trees might need additional protection from the sun's intense heat. Use a shade cloth or burlap to create a temporary shade structure that reduces sun exposure. Remove the shade structure once the temperature drops.

5. Watch for Signs of Stress: Heat stress in trees can appear in ways such as wilting, yellowing leaves, or premature leaf drop. If you notice these signs, act immediately by providing extra water and care.

6. Know Your Trees: Different tree species have varying tolerance levels to heat and drought. Understanding the specific needs of the trees in your area can help you tailor an effective care routine.

By taking these simple yet effective steps, we can ensure the health and longevity of the urban forest even in the face of extreme weather conditions. For a comprehensive guide on tree care throughout the year, visit portland.gov/trees/tree-care-and-resources.

Trees are part of the very fabric of our city

Trees help keep Portland green and healthy. They offer shade; lower temperatures in homes and neighborhoods; provide wildlife habitat, beauty, and cleaner air; and help mitigate the effects of climate change. PP&R regularly plants new trees in areas of town where the canopy is not yet as robust as others. Still, the most recent PP&R studyshowed Portland's tree coverage has declined in recent years.

About PP&R's Urban Forestry department

The mission of PP&R's Urban Forestrydepartment is to manage and care for Portland's urban forest infrastructure. Our urban forest consists of more than 220,000 street trees, 1.2 million park trees, and about 2.9 million private property trees. Some of the many services Urban Forestry provides include creating and implementing the City's Urban Forest Management Plan; fostering community awareness and stewardship of trees; developing tree policies and programs; monitoring and assessing the urban forest; issuing permits for planting, pruning, and removal of public and some private trees; and responding to tree emergencies.

Parks Local Option Levy leads to better and more tree care in PP&R system

With funding from the Parks Levy, passed by voters in November 2020, PP&R is preparing work on restoring natural areas, planting more trees, safeguarding clean water, protecting wildlife, diminishing the effects of climate change, and providing the appropriate care for the 1.2 million trees in Portland's parks system. The levy is also funding the Portland Urban Forest Plan and related work.

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