Posted on

Drought delayng some projects

Services such as vertical mulching, radial trenching, and root collar excavation require good soil moisture for best results.  While we can water in conjunction with such treatments, experience has shown that the best results are yielded when soil moisture is naturally good.

Rainfall has been below average for nine of the past ten months, with very dry conditions combined with very warm temperatures for a good part of the summer.  Drought conditions are worsening across the area.  For this reason, we have delayed some of this work in the hopes that natural soil moisture conditions improve. 

As the fall progresses, temperatures cool, slowing evaporation rates.  We can only hope that rainfall increases as well.  One way or another, we will proceed with the work.  Just be aware that we have not forgotten you and we will take care of things for you.

In the meantime, be sure to water your trees and shrubs.  We are seeing increased stress and defoliation, and experience has shown that such stresses lead to decline or death in either the short or long term.

How do I water and how often?  No matter what type of sprinkler you chose, or if you use a sprinkler system, it is essential that you measure the water applied with a straight sided can or rain gauge. In the Cincinnati area, in areas with clay soil, it is best to water one to two inches at a time, once every seven to ten days in the absence of rainfall. This schedule should be adjusted to account for variations in temperature, natural rainfall, exposure of individual plants and the water needs of individual plants. Do not locate plants together if their water needs are dissimilar.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Posted on

Dry and dryer…

Very dry conditions continue, and little or no rain is forecast over the next two weeks.  Furthermore, after a nice cool down this week, we will return to nasty levels of heat next week.

I have noticed many people are not doing much watering.  I can understand that this is one way to save money in a down economy.  However, as Tony Sands, a TV weatherman in the 70’s, commonly said, “when you dance, you have to pay the fiddler.”

Proper watering does not mean running up huge water bills.  After the 2007 drought and heat wave, we saw thousands of dollars in tree losses and increased insect and disease activity which continue to this day.  Strategic watering can be the difference between life and death for plants, trees, and shrubs. 

For more information, as well as rain gauges and sprinklers, click here>>>

Posted on

Now is the time to water as dry conditions worsen and more heat is on the way

The weekly update from Ohio State, the Buckeye Yard and Garden Line, stated that “many on this week’s call have been on the receiving end of recent rains.”  That may be, but from my observation it missed much of the Cincinnati metro area. 

In the past week, I have measured only 0.10 inches of rainfall with plentiful 90 degree temperatures, topping out at 99, and rapid drying rates.  The forecast is bleak with more oppressive heat in the forecast next week and little or no rain.

Lawns are turning brown and new trees and transplants may not survive without water.  This is the time which could mean life or death for new trees and shrubs in particular.  Most plant warranties are voided if the plants are not watered properly.

For watering information, sprinklers, and rain gauges, click here>>>.

Remember to water, and stay cool.