Signs of Drought Stress
Drought stress can have a severe impact on tree health. Recognizing the signs of stress in trees is crucial for intervention and mitigation. Here are three key indicators to watch for:
- Leaf Wilting and Drooping: During periods of drought, trees may exhibit wilting and drooping leaves as a response to water scarcity. The leaves may appear limp, curled, or discolored, indicating that the tree is experiencing water stress and struggling to obtain sufficient moisture.
- Leaf Scorch and Browning: Drought-stressed trees may develop leaf scorch, characterized by the browning or drying out of leaf edges or entire leaves. This occurs when the tree’s water uptake cannot keep up with the rate of water loss through transpiration. The browning and drying of leaves can spread throughout the tree if the drought persists.
- Premature Leaf Drop: Drought-stressed trees may shed their leaves prematurely as a survival mechanism. This occurs when the tree is unable to sustain the water needs of its foliage. Leaves may drop earlier than usual, even during the growing season, as the tree conserves its limited water resources for survival.
If you notice any of these signs in your trees, contact us now to mitigate risk and ensure your trees are healthy.