Photo: Portland Parks & Rec

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 trees. Portland's trees are more than scenery — they are part of who we are. They live along our streets and in our parks and yards. They shade our children on their way to school and inspire joy, rest, and play.

Trees are an investment and giving them proper maintenance and care will ensure their longevity. Portland Parks & Recreation (PP&R)’s Urban Forestry team is pleased to provide valuable insights on how to care for trees during scorching hot summer days.

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. Young trees benefit from weekly deep watering during hot weather, while established trees generally only need supplemental watering every two to four weeks during prolonged dry periods.

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 regulates soil temperature. Make sure the mulch is spread evenly to a depth of three inches but keep it three inches away from the tree trunk.

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.

Protect the Trunk from Sunscald: Young and newly planted trees are more susceptible to sunscald and heat stress on the trunk, especially during periods of intense afternoon sun. Use a shade cloth or burlap to create a temporary shade structure that reduces sun exposure to the trunk. Remove the shade structure when extreme heat is over.

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.

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.

Trees are part of the very fabric of our city

Like our water, sewer, and transportation systems, Portland's trees are essential infrastructure. They clean our air and water, cool our neighborhoods, support our health, give homes to wildlife, and help our city handle flooding and climate change. PP&R regularly plants new trees in areas of town where the canopy is lower.

For more information on tree planting and care throughout the year, visit portland.gov/trees/tree-care.

Source: Portland Parks & Rec

Mike Jones