The rainy season in Sacramento can be either a blessing or a curse. While water is needed to keep your tree healthy, too much of a good thing can be detrimental. This is undoubtedly the case when your tree becomes overhydrated. While healthy trees can easily handle an influx of excess water in most cases, there are instances when the amount of water can overwhelm the tree system and cause waterlogging.
Typically, trees absorb water from the ground through their root systems and use the water for essential processes such as photosynthesis, transpiration, and respiration. However, too much water can cause a tree to drown, effectively killing the tree.
If you notice that there is standing water around the base of the trees on your property for more than a day or so, it could be a sign that the tree is getting waterlogged. In these cases, you will need to contact the top tree trimming service experts in Sacramento to rescue your trees.
How does a tree become waterlogged?
The most common cause of standing water around trees is extreme weather conditions. Strong typhoons or flash floods can result in a massive influx of water that your trees cannot handle. However, the amount of water is not the only factor you should consider.
Soil condition also plays a huge part. If you have clay or loam soil, the water drains more slowly than it would through sandy soil. The amount of organic matter in the soil matters as well. Leaf debris or large branches can prevent the water from draining correctly.
Finally, you should consider the topography of your landscape. If your property is located in the bottom of a sloped area, it becomes a catch basin for all the runoff water.
Even the species of tree can play a part in whether waterlogging is a common occurrence. Tree species that are native to floodplains, such as maples and cottonwoods, can withstand extended periods submerged in water. On the other hand, upland trees, such as oak trees and hickories, can become waterlogged in as little as one to two days in standing water.
For a homeowner with oak trees on their property, there is nothing more disheartening than seeing a live oak die quickly due to a storm.
What are the signs of waterlogging in trees?
Waterlogged trees show unmistakable physical signs when the situation becomes severe. Some of the symptoms to look out for include:
- Wilting leaves
- Discolored leaves (turning brown or yellowing around the edges)
- Brittle leaves
Keep in mind, however, that the symptoms of too much water and not enough water can look the same to the untrained eye. Unless there was an obvious cause for waterlogging, such as a storm or standing water, you might not be able to tell the difference.
This is why it is crucial to call our expert arborists to ensure the proper treatment for your trees.
What should I do if my trees are waterlogged?
If it has been determined by our team that your trees are waterlogged, we will determine how best to save your plant. One of our methods involves drilling a hole to remove the excess water from the trunk and allowing the water to drain out.
Afterward, the hole will be plugged with a special expanding foam that prevents pathogens from entering. This ensures that your tree returns to a state of health as quickly as possible.
Call Us Today!
We know how important it is for our customers to have healthy and beautiful trees on their property. This is why we strive to offer the best tree preservation services in Sacramento at competitive rates. Call us today for a free estimate.