This year’s Spring Tree Sale was a success, with 99 trees distributed to 70 households across the city. The program used a lottery system that prioritized neighborhoods with lower tree canopy coverage, ensuring trees were planted in the areas that need them most. Thanks to all who participated in helping grow a greener Golden Valley!
Trees provide valuable shade, improve air quality, and boost curb appeal. Whether you have a newly planted tree or one that is more established, keeping them healthy through the heat takes a little know-how. Follow these steps to protect trees during growing season.
- Mulch: Apply mulch in a donut shape (not a volcano mound) using the 3-3-3 rule so it’s three inches away from the trunk, three inches deep, and three feet in diameter. Mulch helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and keeps lawn equipment away from trunks.
- Water: In the absence of rain, young trees (those planted in the last 3 to 5 years) should be given 15 to 20 gallons of water weekly. A slow trickle from a hose or watering bag works well. Mature trees typically only need watering during drought conditions. A soaker hose is ideal, delivering water slowly until the soil is thoroughly saturated. If the area receives an inch of rain in a week, additional watering may not be needed.
- Monitor: Summer is the prime growing season and also when trees are most vulnerable to insects and disease. Look for signs like leaf damage, mushrooms at the base, branch dieback, or early leaf drop. If something seems off, consult a certified arborist for a diagnosis and care plan or visit the City website for more information.
- Fertilize: Not all trees need fertilizer. Test the soil first to determine if any nutrients are missing before applying fertilizer or treating other problems.
- Prune: Summer is for removing dead or hazardous limbs only. Save routine pruning for the winter/dormant season. Avoid pruning oaks, elms, and fruit trees April through July to reduce disease risk.