Hard times for Redwoods

Drought is tough on every living thing but a sustained drought is a death sentence for redwoods. Big trees, particularly in hot weather, move hundreds of gallons of water in a very short period of time. Trees are only still on the outside. The current water shortage is outlasting some very old redwoods. Aside from the regrettable loss of these magnificent creations is the very real problem of danger to humans and habitats. A dry tree dies and a dead tree falls over. Big limbs fail. It is imperative that everyone living within the reach of a redwood be attentive to the health of the tree. Redwoods are evergreen; a brown redwood is a bad sign. During this time of year, we expect to see healthy redwoods with a thick canopy. Spindly green growth insufficient for the size of the limbs is an indicator of serious problems. Not every tree will have to be removed, some can be treated. But whether a tree must be removed, lightened, or treated, timeliness is extremely important. Let's check our trees before the coming hot weather accelerates problems.