Are we enjoying an early autumn?

Round & About

This month gardening expert Cathie Welch answers questions on drought and trees losing their leaves early 

Heat and drought: Following the very wet spring all the trees and shrubs burst into life only to be punished by the hottest and driest summer on record. As a tutor I am always talking about the importance of water in plant growth as without it they die. Not only has it been exceptionally dry there have also been extremes of temperature and as a result many different problems have arisen. 

New planting: When we plant new plants, whether bare rooted or container grown, they need water to grow new roots to become established. This can take a few years! Establishment failure due to drought is extremely common even for ‘drought tolerant’ plants. When plants are small it is easy to reach the roots by soaking the root area thoroughly and regularly. We can also mulch with organic matter which acts like a sponge to hold onto the water for longer. 

Established trees and shrubs: Once plants are established as a result of regular watering and maintenance they can sort of look after themselves. Their roots grow very deep looking for the water table and watering from above is futile. During the last few months trees have started to shed their leaves early and show Autumnal hues. This is just the trees way of conserving energy and shutting down early to prepare for dormancy over winter. Evergreens also shed leaves to conserve water as water vapour is lost through the leaves by a process called transpiration. It can also lead to dieback in future years. We can only hope next year is more positive for our plants, farmers and growers.