Water is the most limiting ecological resource for a tree, and without adequate moisture, decline and death are imminent. Drought can have a major impact on tree health and survival. It reduces carbohydrate production, significantly lowering energy reserves and production of defense chemicals in the tree.

Trees in a weakened state from drought are more susceptible to pests, which can further weaken the tree, and even kill part or all of it. Although there is nothing we can do to prevent drought, it is important to know what can be done to reduce long-term effects of prolonged dry conditions.

Urban Forestry Specialist Lindsey Purcell describes how homeowners can deal with drought-stressed trees in the short-term and long-term in his publication “Drought? Don’t Forget the Trees!” Purcell also provides insight on the state of Indiana’s drought-stressed trees and how to protect them in the video “Trees in Times of Drought​.”

Resources:
Trees in Times of Drought​, Video, Purdue Agriculture
Drought Information​, Indiana Department of Natural Resources
Drought? Don’t forget the trees!, The Education Store
Corn Belt Farmers’ Concerns About Drought and Heat-related Threats to Their Farm Operations, The Education Store
Safety Harvesting Quality Forage in a Drought, The Education Store
Planting Your Tree Part 1: Choosing Your Tree, Purdue Extension YouTube Channel
Tree Defect Identification, The Education Store
Tree Wound and Healing, Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources
Surface Root Syndrome, The Education Store
Planning the Tree Planting Operation, The Education Store
Tree Risk Management, The Education Store
ID That Tree, Purdue Extension-FNR YouTube playlist
Subscribe – Purdue Extension-FNR YouTube Channel

Lindsey Purcell, Chapter Executive Director
Indiana Arborist Association