Introduction:
Understanding the Impact of Drought Stress
The Importance of Combating Drought Stress
Strategies for Combating Drought Stress
- Watering: Regular and deep watering is essential to combat drought stress. Trees should be watered deeply, allowing the water to penetrate the root zone. Watering should be done in the early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation.
- Mulching: Applying a layer of organic mulch around the base of trees helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weed growth. Mulching also improves soil structure and provides essential nutrients as it decomposes.
- Proper Pruning: Pruning helps reduce the water demand of trees by removing dead or excessive branches. This allows the tree to allocate resources more efficiently and reduces stress during drought conditions.
- Soil Management: Improving soil health through practices such as aeration and adding organic matter enhances its water-holding capacity. Healthy soil retains moisture better, reducing the impact of drought stress on trees.