Wind can damage trees suffering from lack of moisture at any season. In exposed coastal gardens, trees tolerant of both wind and salt spray include Russian olive, white poplar, eastern redcedar, and loblolly and Japanese black pines. Dry site solutions Install efficient irrigation. Drip irrigation provides more efficient water use than overhead sprinklers. Reduce fertilizer use during droughts.
Fertilizers are salts that can further stress or kill trees if water is inadequate.
Salt concentrations can build up in the soils due to decreased water availability. Even controlled release fertilizers may release much more rapidly during hot weather, causing excessive salt levels. Application of mulch can improvethe water status of trees. Mulches also reduce the impact of water droplets hitting the soil surface, thereby reducing soil erosion and crusting and increasing water penetration into the soil. Despite its many benefits, mulch can be harmful when applied too thickly or piled against tree trunks.