Caring for urban trees

Tree Hugger -  John Parker, chief executive of the Arboricultural Association, says: “Planting a tree is just the start of the story. The health and survival of new urban trees is threatened by increasingly dry weather.  It is recommended that newly planted trees are given 50 litres [13 gallons] of water per week during the summer months, for the first three years. You can help ensure healthy trees for the future over the summer months by watering trees near you.” As echoed by the New York Botanical Garden, probably the biggest problem street trees face, especially young trees, is drought. “Trees need 8 to 10 gallons of water a week to stay healthy, with young trees benefiting from 10 to 20 gallons while they are getting established. You can help keep street trees alive during dry periods by watering generously once a week.”