The Tree Dragon

What’s your legacy?

What, among the things you do each day, will benefit the people who come after you for generations?

A member of the white oak family supports over 500 species of insect pollinators, and thousands of other insect and animal species.

A bald cypress could outlive the next 40 generations of your descendants, and orivide shade, beauty, and cleaner air for all of them.

Trees release moisture into the atmosphere that eventually becomes rain. Their roots interact with microbes and mycorrhizae to help the plants and trees around them, even drawing water from deep underground.

Shade.

Clean air.

Temperature leveling.

Erosion control.

Food.

Shelter.

What’s not to love ?

Want to leave a lasting legacy? Plant a tree or two. Or seven.

In the mid-south right now, the green growth is about five weeks ahead of time.

…for most things. Driving around town, it’s obvious that some trees just aren’t leafing out. Yet.

The key word is “yet.” They’re not leafing out Yet.

Things to know:

1) If you have a tree or shrub that seems to still be dormant, don’t panic. It may just be waiting for the right signals.

While a lot of trees begin growth based on temperature, some trees and shrubs are on a “sunlight hours” schedule for leafing out. Wait at least another month before writing a tree or shrub off. They don’t care about the temperatures; they care about hours of daylight and hours of dark.

2) And Lord have mercy, don’t smother the trees’ rootlets with mulch.

3) Do a snap test, where possible. If branches and twigs aren’t brittle, they are still alive.

4) If you’re worried about your tree, just hold up a beat before cutting stuff. Even an aging or struggling tree can be helped along with mindful care, and live for years or even decades longer.

5) If you’re still worried a month from now, get an arborist’s opinion, and maybe one not affiliated with a tree removal company. There are exceptions to this; our own trusted arborist works for a fine tree company. The key is to find one whose focus is on ensuring tree health and longevity.

Arborists are amazing, and there are a lot of reputable companies out there. Take advice from your local botanical gardens or university for recommendations.

But again - before you do anything , give yourself and your tree a break, and wait a few weeks before acting. Your tree or shrub may just need time to catch up.

Now, go hug your tree. It deserves some extra love for dealing with our crazy weather. 🌳