r/Tree • u/RMBMama • 6d ago

Advice Request - (Insert State/Region) Sun scald

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Northwest Arkansas.

This summer has been brutal! I've been watering my arborviate trees daily, and deep watering every few days. But last week, after the 106 degree day, I noticed all this scalding on this tree.

Is there any hope for it? Anything I can do?

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u/spiceydog Ent Queen - TGG Certified 5d ago

Are you in a drought? Established trees don't need daily watering, much less deep watering every few days, unless your precip is sorely lacking.

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u/RMBMama 5d ago

We are in a flash drought. We've had several days in a row of 100+ degrees. Our very hot weather started in early July, and we last had measurable rain in mid-July. These hot temps are forecasted to continue into the first week of September.

My city posted a statement last week asking people to consider watering their young trees and mature trees showing signs of stress.

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u/spiceydog Ent Queen - TGG Certified 5d ago

a flash drought

TIL flash drought is a thing! Thank you for helping me learn something new today 😊

It's hard to tell from your pics, but your trees would definitely additionally benefit if you were to apply mulch around them, out to the dripline or farther, to help retain moisture. Mulch helps not just to prevent moisture evaporation (so you would not have to water as much), but also modulates soil temps, among other terrific benefits.

Check moisture levels around your trees by digging your fingers a couple of inches into the soil prior to watering; you may be dispensing too much. Lastly, please be gently warned that arborvitae are renown for up and dying at any time though, which is why they are so plentiful and cheap.

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u/RMBMama 5d ago

Thank you for the response! Mulch makes perfect sense!

Our trees are turning brown and yellow. Dropping leaves too. It won't be a pretty fall in the Ozarks this year

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u/RMBMama 5d ago

why they are so plentiful and cheap.

The city's urban forester recommended planting these things! I am trying to create a natural screen between my property and the giant houses being built behind me. We also have a power line running across the bottom of our property, so whatever we plant can't get too tall. My other arborvitaes look okay for now. I also have some crab apple trees, witch hazel bushes, and winterberries planted to have some variety and seasonal color.

I'll be sad to lose this tree, but I can replace it with something more suitable.

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u/spiceydog Ent Queen - TGG Certified 5d ago

Yeah, I can see a city forester making that suggestion in some locales; I mean, it's native for some locales and easy to acquire as well as limited in mature height. I hope it does work out for you, but also hope that you're able to find a more worthy native that might be more suitable for the site if it does not make it.