Megan: More than likely the tree is not getting enough water. The alligator bags do a great job because they slowly drip right into the root ball, which is where a newly planted tree needs it, at least during the first year or two. Depending on the size of your tree, it may need 2-3 gallons or more of water every 4 or 5 days, which may be a lot more than the other plants in that bed need or are getting through the soaker hose.  

Sharon O'Neill

sharon@kasefang.com

From: gardening-bounces@eastraleigh.org [mailto:gardening-bounces@eastraleigh.org] On Behalf Of Megan Huffman
Sent: Friday, June 17, 2011 12:36 PM
To: gardening@eastraleigh.org
Subject: [Gardening] Tree Problems - Please help!!

Great list!  I have enjoyed reading and learning so much about my garden.  And now, I'm seeking some advice about my landscaping!  Hope someone can help!  Last November, we had a landscaper plant a cherry blossom tree (Prunus autumnalis).  The tree is quite large and is several years old - so as you can imagine, it was quite expensive!  It bloomed beautifully in the early spring and now is turning brown.  After doing some research, I think that it is not getting enough water.  Normally, the landscaping bed that it is in has a soaker hose - however, we now think that the water is running off and not soaking into the ground.  We have now created a mulch ring around the tree and water it directly, slowly.  But, I'm still not sure it is getting enough water.  Does anyone know a good way to water it to make sure it's getting to the roots?  I have read about the tree bags and the spikes that reach 24 into the ground allowing you to water the roots directly.  Does anyone have experience with those?  Do you agree that lack of water is the problem?  If it finally gets enough water, will it bounce back?  Please say yes!  And how long will it take?

Thanks so much for all advise!

Megan Peterson

313 Cooke St.