Urban Tree Stress

Why Are Urban Trees Stressed?

Less Water is Available – In Urban Environments, there are more paved surfaces which encourage runoff instead of absorption. These surfaces cause higher soil temperatures and faster evaporation of rainfall. 

Restricted Root Space – Building foundations, streets, driveways, and other obstacles limit the expansion of tree roots and significantly reduce the amount of water and minerals available to the tree.

Compacted Soils – Urban soils are usually compacted from human activity, and this creates stress for a tree. Soils can become difficult for roots to penetrate, and compacted soils hold much less water and oxygen which are critical for tree health.

Competition – Most yards have a dense layer of turf that surrounds a tree.  Turf aggressively competes for minerals and water, which reduces their availability to other plants. Adding several inches of mulch within the dripline of the tree reduces competition with turf, keeps the soil cooler, and holds more moisture.

Slower Growing Trees

A common myth about trees is that a faster growing tree is healthier than a slower growing tree. The truth is that slower growing trees will outlive trees that grow faster, especially in environments such as yards where space and resources are limited. The chart below shows some important differences between a tree growing relatively faster or slower.

An Integrated Approach

When caring for urban trees it is important to have a certified arborist make a thorough evaluation of the site to accurately diagnose all stressing agents. A tailored recommendation to its specific circumstances will allow your tree to live to its fullest potential. Contact us for a comprehensive maintenance program.

Benefits of Cambistat for Urban Trees

Cambistat is a soil-applied product that is absorbed through the tree’s roots. Cambistat gently slows the growth of trees, allowing the tree to redirect some of its energy from canopy growth to defense chemicals, fibrous root production, and other uses. The resulting reallocation of energy makes your tree healthier and more resilient.

Drought is a major cause of tree death and decline in the urban landscape. Research shows Cambistat increases drought resistance by helping the tree reduce water losses during dry, hot periods.

Cambistat changes some important physical traits of leaves. Leaves of treated trees tend to be greener (due to higher concentrations of chlorophyll) than those of untreated and have an enhanced protective barrier (thicker leaf surface and denser surface hairs).

Research also shows Cambistat increases fine root density in trees.