Care & Management for Grand Junction’s Trees
Grand Junction is an incredibly interesting place to raise trees. We are the high desert and if we travel any direction outside of the valley, we see just how amazing it is that we have such a diverse and active canopy. This, however, doesn’t come innately. More work and catered attention for each tree is needed here in Grand Junction. Especially when compared to many cities of similar size around the country. Paying attention to your trees will be one of if not the most important thing you can do for the future of your property’s shade. But what should you focus on? To help with this, think about these 3 M’s every time you check out your trees: Moisture, Mulching, and Monitor.
Moisture focuses on the water that your tree’s root system is directly receiving. Paying attention to where it comes from and if the tree is receiving what it is supposed to is critical to long term vitality and success of all trees in our valley. Grand Junction, on average, receives ~9.4 inches of precipitation per year. Compare that to the national average of ~30 or the national high of ~460 and the reality for our trees becomes very clear; they will not have water without our help.
Mulching focuses on the protection of the soil surrounding your trees and as a result, protection of the root systems. The benefits of mulching are vast from beneficial fungal relationships to moisture retention and gradual fertilization. Make mulching a priority.
Monitor focuses on the continued evaluation and analysis of your trees. Is the soil around them dry? Is there branch dieback? Are borer holes present in the trunk or branches? Are the leaves the appropriate shape and color? Tracking your tree makes all the difference in terms of getting to something on time or getting to it too late.
Some links on proper mulching:
https://gardenprofessors.com/maddening-mulch-myths/
https://s3.wp.wsu.edu/uploads/sites/403/2015/03/wood-chips.pdf