City of Vancouver urges residents to water, mulch trees

Residents can prevent drought damage to trees by mulching around the base and regularly watering during the hot, dry summer months.

The city of Vancouver’s Urban Forestry division issued a reminder that young trees need 10 to 15 gallons of water once a week during the summer, and older trees may need extra water, too. A general guideline is to use about 10 gallons of water per inch of trunk diameter during each watering.

Water slowly, dispersing the flow to get deep down to the trees’ roots. Watering for short time periods encourages shallow rooting, which can lead to more drought damage.

To prevent wasteful runoff and ensure deep watering, do one of the following:

• Turn a hose on low for 15 minutes at the base of the tree.

• Place a five-gallon bucket full of water with holes at the bottom at the base of the tree.

• Install a slow-release watering bag.

To reduce evaporation, water in the morning. Bark chips make good mulch, using three inches of mulch in a 3-foot ring with a 3-inch space around the tree trunk.

The city of Vancouver has been recognized as a Tree City USA for 26 years. The trees shade neighborhoods, clean the air and water and enhance quality of life.

Want to do more? The public can join Vancouver Urban Forestry in a hands-on pruning workshop from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday at First Place Park at the corner of Southeast 16th Street and 151st Avenue. Tools, gloves and training will be provided.

For questions and a list of tree care tips, go to www.cityofvancouver.us/urbanforestry, or call 360-487-8308.