PAMPER IT
To insure that your tree grows up strong and healthy, take good care of it while it is young until it gets established.
WATER is critical, because it carries nutrients from the root ball up
the trunk to the leaves. In the heat of our dry summers, trees can
become water stressed. Wilted and/or dark color leaves are indicators
of insufficient watering. Severe water stress causes leaves to yellow
and drop off. Trees can be planted at any time of the year in Kern
County, but be aware that Nature is more forgiving in the winter and
early spring. Trees planted in late spring or in the heat of the summer
are sure candidates for water stress. Here are some things you can do
to help your trees get through their first few summers in Kern County.
Be Efficient
BUILD A BERM around the tree 3
to 4 feet wide and 4 inches high. Be sure that you water inside the
berm. A berm of this size will hold a large amount of water which will
be directed to the roots.
CONTROL WEEDS in the berm to decrease competition for moisture.
FERTILIZE appropriately. A strong, vigorous tree and root system will make better use of available water.
DON'T FEEL GUILTY about
watering your trees. Less than 4% of California's developed water
supply is used for landscape, including homes and businesses, golf
courses, public parks and roadways. It would take a 25% cut in
landscape watering to save just 1% of California's water supply.
ADJUST STAKES as needed. Remove them as soon as the tree can stand straight on its own.
FERTILIZE with nitrogen
regularly. Nitrogen is the element most lacking in Kern County soil,
and trees respond well to regular feeding. At time of planting, apply
three-quarters of a cup of ammonium sulfate containing 21% nitrogen in
a three foot area on the surface of the soil, staying 6 inches away
from the trunk. Water thoroughly and repeat in six weeks, and according
to manufacturer's instructions thereafter.
ADD MULCH to inside of berm to retain moisture and control weeds. DO NOT COVER TRUNK WITH MULCH and risk of rotting root crown.
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