GreenTech- July Report

This January- June were the wettest six months on record in Illinois. We had a total of 27.7 inches, which is 8.3 inches above average. Flooding has been a big problem in many areas. What effects will all this moisture have on trees?

Flooding and Potential Effects on Trees
(from US Forest Service factsheet)

• Poor soil aeration- lack of oxygen for roots
• Change in soil pH
• Decreased decomposition of organic matter and potentially damaging byproducts
• Deposits of sediment may smother roots
• Exposure of roots from soil washed away
• Damage from floating debris
• Damage from chemicals in the water
  
• Cold, fast moving water carries more oxygen- will be less harmful

Flood Tolerance in Trees

• Some species can tolerate several feet of water for a time, but few can tolerate more than a month of standing water.
  
• The more of the tree under water, the more chance for injury (especially when it gets to the foliage).
  
• Mature trees are more tolerant than seedlings (or aging/declining trees)
• Healthy trees tolerate flooding better than stressed trees.
• Trees that can maintain roots, go dormant, or grow adventitious roots are better equipped to survive.
  
• Even the healthiest, most flood tolerant trees will not tolerate complete submersion.
  

-Mary T. McClelland- GreenTech

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