Residents asked to water young street trees during heat wave

July 9, 2010 (No. 33) - The Vancouver Park Board is encouraging residents to water street trees in front of their homes and on their block - not only during this heat wave, but throughout the summer.

Watering trees is very important to their growth and health. They require even more water during hot spells like the one we are currently experiencing. Extreme hot weather is especially damaging to newly planted trees which are still establishing their root systems. Trees planted within the last four years - many of which have "new tree" tags attached - would benefit most by watering at this time.

Residents are asked to keep vigilant for young stressed street trees adjacent to their property - usually indicated by leaves turning brown or falling. The best practice is to apply at least 12 to 20 litres of water (five to 10 minutes with a slow running hose or a couple of watering cans full) two to three times per week over the roots. Regional water restrictions do not apply to trees and shrubs. However, be water-wise by ensuring that all of it gets to the tree.

In the past four years, the Park Board has planted more than 11,000 trees on our streets. It is estimated that the 137,000 trees currently found on Vancouver's streets are valued at more than $500 million.

More information about Vancouver's street trees can be found at vancouverparks.ca. Click on the 'Trees' link under 'For your information.'

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For more information contact Daria Wojnarski Communications Coordinator,
at (t) 604-257-8440 or (c) 604-561-6925.

The Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation maintains 220 parks and 40 major facilities throughout the City of Vancouver. The Park Board's mission is to provide, preserve and advocate for parks and recreation services to benefit people, communities and the environment.