Drought Risk and Tree Planting

Shelterwood planting
Shelterwood planting

The PINEMAP team produced a helpful publication on whether To Plant or Not to Plantwhich includes a checklist of eight items for consideration before planting tree seedlings. The Fact Sheet, produced by the Texas Forest Service and Texas Agrilife Extension Service, refers to Texas, but the process for timber stand drought risk assessment is broadly applicable and not time-limited.  Important considerations before planting include working with a qualified professional, assessing the site quality and soil moisture, …

How should trees be irrigated?

If trees are to be irrigated, they should be given enough water to wet the soil at least 2 to 3 feet deep. The water should be applied in a doughnut-shaped pattern at the drip-line or outer edge of the tree’s branches. It generally takes about 2 inches of irrigation water or rain to soak 2 feet deep. Check the soil 6 to 8 inches deep just outside the drip-line of the trees monthly. If the soil is dry, then …