The Effects of Drought on Trees: Why It Lasts for Years to Come

Published On: November 15th, 20212.7 min read

As the climate continues to change, years of drought have become a serious problem for many regions, and the effects are starting to show. In fact, more than half of U.S. states have experienced moderate drought in 2021.

What does this mean for you? Flowers and shrubs may make it through with regular watering, but your trees could end up suffering for years to come after a drought!

Read on to learn about the effects of drought and how your trees could be impacted!

Drought and Trees

The most affected trees are seedlings and transplants. Seedlings have shallow root systems and the top layers of soil dry out the most quickly. Transplants are more sensitive due to transplant shock, loss of their root system, and soil issues.

While established trees and plants are less at risk of damage due to drought, they face the effects as well. Drought inflames any pre-existing issues in trees such as improper planting or diseases. Landscape trees that are not native to the area are also less equipped to deal with drought.

The symptoms of drought can be hard to spot and may not show themselves until a few seasons later. Understanding the effects is the first step to maintaining your yard!

Short-Term Effects of Drought on Trees

A plant’s first response to drought is to close its stomata, through which they release water and absorb carbon dioxide. This reduces the rate of photosynthesis.

You’ll notice shriveling and falling leaves in damaged plants. If you notice discoloration or scorching, it’s time to take action.

Trees weakened by drought will also be more sensitive to winter temperatures, pesticides, and diseases.

Long-Term Damage

Drought causes the amount of water in the soil to decrease. This causes fragile root systems to die, making it difficult for the plants to absorb water even when the soil is restored.

If a drought is long-lasting or recurring, the damage to trees will be much more severe.

You may notice that entire branches die, especially at the crown of the tree. A reduction in growth and gradual decline are other signs that your tree has been damaged.

Recovering From the Effects of Drought

The best way to prevent long-lasting damage is to stay on top of tree maintenance.

Start with the soil – make sure that your trees have a healthy root system by incorporating water-retaining matter like mulch. You don’t need to water your trees frequently, but make sure the water goes deep into the soil!

An arborist can provide all the drought-care your trees need, from pruning back damaged branches to full removal of dead trees. They can also give your trees the attention they need to stay healthy during and after a drought.

Keep Your Trees Blooming

The effects of drought can cause long-lasting damage, but you can keep your trees healthy by employing a tree service near you. Tree services can help with tree preservation during a drought as well as tree recovery or removal.

Looking for arborist services in Connecticut? You can request an estimate here to find out about the services available to you! Don’t miss the chance to make your yard as healthy and beautiful as it can be after the past few years of drought!

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Garren Averett
Garren Averett
2022-05-25
These guys are FANTASTIC. Justin, Lindsey, their entire crew really great!! When Justin stopped by to take a look, he listened to what we wanted to accomplish, made suggestions on what to take, leave or just trim. His crew came as expected, did a GREAT job!! If it wasn't for the sign and missing trees you would never have known they were here. I could go on and on. Thank you!!!
MICHAEL GOSSELIN
MICHAEL GOSSELIN
2022-05-20
I used Arbortech Tree Inc., to remove some trees in my yard. This Company was unbelievably awesome, from first call to final clean up. Thank you Arbortech, you will be getting more business from me in the near future... and an A+ recommendation to whomever ask or needs Tree Removal. Thanks Mike Gosselin (Coventry)
Bob Sheryl Kelly
Bob Sheryl Kelly
2022-05-18
We were so impressed with the whole team from Arbortech. Justin the owner was the first to respond to our quotes and was a pleasure to speak with, the office people, Lindsey, kept us up to date and we had the 'A' Team - Paul, Pete and Eric. The best way for me to describe the 'A' team is they are like artists. From their skill to their coordination to friendliness and beautiful clean up. . Marvel to watch. Would highly recommend this company and will use again in the future.
Patricia Cortes
Patricia Cortes
2022-05-16
Very Happy with their customer service. There was a large dead tree pretty near my garage, the neighbor's garage, and another neighbor's home that really needed to get taken down. They came out and had it down in a few hours, had everything cleaned up right after. I plan to use them again myself and would definitely recommend them!
Roxanne Oakley
Roxanne Oakley
2022-05-16
This is the second time we have used Arbortech to trim and cut down trees in our yard. After taking his time looking at the trees in question, Justin gave us his professional opinion as an arborist as to the work that needed to be done. The job was scheduled and the crew arrived promptly and did an amazing job! Paul accomplished much of this high up in the bucket equipment because of the height of the trees that needed to be taken down. It was incredible watching the men all work together. At the end of the job, the yard was cleaned up and the crew made sure we were happy with all their work. As an added bonus, we got a follow up call to make sure all had gone well, something you don't encounter much anymore! I highly recommend Arbortech for their knowledge and professionalism!!
Brendan O'Brien
Brendan O'Brien
2022-05-09
I have used Arbortech now multiple times at my house and wouldn't use any other tree service company. Justin is fantastic to work with, he and his team were always incredibly professional, helpful, knowledgeable and just great to work with. For our most recent job, both Justin and Lindsey worked with us to meet a tight deadline for some other work we were having completed. Thank you again for all your help, we really appreciate it!!
Peter Kelly
Peter Kelly
2022-04-29
Another fantastic job by Justin's biz: Arbortech Tree Inc. Today 3 guys came and cut up and stacked a bunch of 8'-10'' lengths of the trees that were felled a couple of months ago. These guys don't rest until the work is done. They worked efficiently and safely. Totally recommend these guys. Thanks!!
Jennifer Todisco
Jennifer Todisco
2022-04-28
Arbortech just took down three trees in my yard and I couldn’t be more pleased! Great price, came when they promised, and cleaned up so it looked like the trees had never been there! Highly recommend!
Carrie Kelley
Carrie Kelley
2022-04-25
Excellent service from start to finish!
Michele Pellegrino
Michele Pellegrino
2022-04-10
We've used Arbortech Tree for two large jobs at our property. They were great to work with. Their team was well skilled with handling the removal of large trees that were near our home. They communicated well throughout the scheduling of the job. I would highly recommend Arbortech!