Get Your Gator On; Save Your Trees

Get Your Gator On; Save Your Trees.

Prolonged dry conditions can really wreak havoc on newly planted trees, and if severe enough, tree death can occur.   This past spring (June 2020) I planted a maple (Acer rubrum ‘Sun Valley’) in my backyard and last fall the township planted a similar species in the front of my property.   The last several weeks our region has experienced hot dry weather often times exceeding 90 degrees F with only intermittent thunder showers to provide some relief but not enough moisture to sustain the life of newly planted trees.  Rather than hoping and waiting for a well-timed soaking rain to preserve my trees, I purchased a “gator” to protect my trees from the dry soil conditions.  “Gators” are watering bags that wrap around the bottom half of the trunk and/or on top of the tree bed and allow a slow soaking release of water to keep the tree properly hydrated.   You may have seen these devices in municipal and mall parking lots on newly planted trees.                                                                                                  

They are also a great tool for the homeowner who wishes to preserve their trees, increase the value of their landscape and protect their investment.  After all, a reasonably sized deciduous tree (8-10 ft) may cost $150 to $300, if not more, depending on the species and cultivar.   Spending $20 on a “gator” goes a long way to protecting this investment.    

Since I only had 2 trees, I only purchased one “gator” bag and about every 5 to 7 days I rotate the bag between the two maple trees both which are about 1 to 2 inches in diameter.  Most are manufactured with a rust-proof zipper design for easy attachment and removal.   I was pleasantly surprised how easy it was to remove and re-attach.    I fill the bag to its 15 -gallon capacity and let the water slowly soak the root zone.  Once the threat of dry conditions subsides, I will remove the bag and store in the garage over the winter reserving the bag for next season or for any tree planting I may do in the fall.   These bags are durable and should last for many years. 

My personal experience:

• Easy-to-Use
• Saves time                                
• Water about every 5-7 days especially in dry conditions
• Conserves water/reduces water evaporation
• Provides for a deep thorough watering of the root zone
• Excellent method to prevent transplant shock of large trees