Water is essential! New trees need frequent watering for the first 2 years. 10 gallons of water every 3-4 days. Since we are in a drought this summer all our neighborhood trees need extra water especially as they get ready for winter which is a very dehydrating time for them.

Mulch carefully: Mulch (wood bark/chips) helps keep soil moist but should not touch or be built up against the bark at the base the tree as this can cause the bark to rot. Stones for mulch are not recommended as they compact the soil (which can cause trees not to get proper air exchange or water to roots). Stones also heat up the soil which can cause premature dehydration.

Fall is a great time to check your outdoor spaces for “volunteers”- trees you did not actually plant that may be invasive and taking water and nutrients from trees, bushes and plants you meant to plant. Many invasive trees in our area (for example:Tree of Heaven -Ailanthus altissima and White Mulberry-morus alba) grow very quickly and can become fairly large in just one season. It is best to get rid of them when they are young.