In light of predictions of "more intense" droughts in the Canadian Prairies for upcoming seasons, professional tree care company Alberta Arborists is prepared for a higher demand in their services, like pruning and fertilization.

In light of predictions of "more intense" droughts in the Canadian Prairies for upcoming seasons, professional tree care company Alberta Arborists (www.albertaarborists.com) is prepared for a higher demand in their services. During the past five years, the Alberta Prairies have experienced some of the driest conditions in over a century, and this year threatens to be one the most intense droughts to date. The concern for both the health and growth of the trees, shrubs and plant life in the region is increasing and may require intervention to curb the potential hazard posed by Mother Nature.

According to climate scientist Jim Bruce in a recent interview with the Calgary Herald, "Alberta and Saskatchewan had a very severe drought in both 1999 and 2004, and that's estimated to have cost the economy about $5 billion. These droughts are expected to get longer and more intense. It's likely to get drier in the drier parts of the Prairies."

Alberta Arborist owner Craig Jabs proposes that a healthy recovery for trees and shrubs affected by drought can be achieved through a steady regimen of watering, fertilization, mulching, monitoring for insects and disease, and proper pruning, all services that are provided by his company. Jabs described each solution and their benefits:

1. Water. It is cheaper to water trees and shrubs than it is to replace them. Fewer, deep-root waterings are better than more frequent, shallow watering. Water at least once a week during drought conditions and once every 3 weeks during regular conditions.

2. Fertilization. The use of deep-root, slow-release fertilizer will enhance new root development. Top quality, low salt index fertilizers will prevent root burn. Soil injection of fertilizer and water is applied by pressurized injection into the root zones of the trees and shrubs. This method of application relieves soil compaction by aerating the soil, allowing for better root growth and the absorption of water, nutrients and oxygen. It will help reduce the severity of drought injury and allow trees and shrubs to recover more rapidly.

3. Mulching. Mulching the area around trees and shrubs with bark mulch will lower soil temperatures and decrease the loss of moisture due to evaporation.

4. Monitoring For Insects And Disease. The proper identification of insects and disease is essential for effective control.

5. Proper Pruning. The removal of dead and dying branches is critical. Dead and dying branches attract wood boring insects which can cause major damage to the health of your trees and shrubs.

"Drought and dry soil conditions may result in the damage and even death of your trees and shrubs. Drought will manifest itself differently in different plants," Jabs explained.

In extreme cases, a homeowner may require emergency tree removal, which is one of Alberta Arborists' specialties.

Alberta Arborists' commitment to the healthy preservation of trees and plant life in and around the Edmonton area is supported by their effective treatments and communication with their clients. When residents experience drought issues that require professional tree care or tree removal in Edmonton, Alberta Arborists can help.