Temps in the high 90’s and below average rainfall:

In times of little or no rainfall, and especially during the hot summer months, our leafy friends need help in staying alive. Trees, especially those that have been in the ground less than three years, require 25 gallons of water – comparable to 1.5 inches of rainfall per week to grow healthy and strong.

Watering trees on and surrounding your property is a small investment that yields a high return. Healthy trees provide cooling shade, help lower utility bills, increase property values, make neighborhoods more livable, and are less likely to fall on your house or car during a storm.

To keep you in the know on when to water your trees, Casey Trees, the penultimate local foundation that educates, fosters and cultivates the District urban canopy, has created a Tree Watering Guide. Every Monday, they issue a watering recommendation. [Dry, Normal or Wet - and the associated watering recommendation - Time to Water, Additional Watering Optional or No Additional Watering Needed respectively.] It is posted on their website, www.caseytrees.org You can also friend them on Facebook and Twitter feed.

Additionally, for persons who register and make the “25 to Stay Alive” pledge, Casey Trees will mail a complimentary rain gauge to monitor rainfall totals at home. If you receive less than 1.5 inches of rainfall, it is time to water. Casey is also continuing their Ooze Tube program. Residents can pick up Ooze Tubes free-of-charge from their downtown office during normal business hours.