News

The City’s Parks Operations is asking all residents to consider watering their trees and shrubs during this period of drought in Grande Prairie. Due to the lack of significant rainfall over several weeks, trees are showing signs of drought stress such as yellowing leaves and branch death.

These drought conditions are forcing some trees into early dormancy, which may result in their death over the winter months. Trees must have sufficient root reserves to see them through until spring.

Adequate Tree Care

Residents are reminded to properly water a mature tree, turn the hose to a trickle and place it out at the dripline (where rain would hit the ground if it fell off the outermost tips of the branches) in several spots for one hour total. Grass consumes a significant amount of water so shallow, frequent watering does little to help trees. Deep, infrequent watering (once every two weeks for mature trees) is much more effective. 

Soil moisture levels should always be checked before watering. If the soil is already moist, don’t water again until dry, as over-watering may drown the tree.