Flood Timing Flooding in the growing season is worse for trees than dormant season flooding, especially if the air temperature is warm. The higher the temperature, the faster and more severe any oxygen shortage will be felt, and the more the top of a tree will dehydrate. Flooding during warm growing season periods magnify flood damage because of respiration needs, water oxygen contents, and foliage water loss. See Table 1 . Flood water quality is critical.
Stagnant water is usually more damaging than flowing water.
Flowing water can carry debris that physically damage trees. Flowing water does have turbulent mixing that move oxygen more effectively to root surfaces than standing water. Middle-aged trees tolerate flooding better than young and old trees. Dormant season flooding with cold air and water temperatures are the best conditions for flooding. Foliage covered by flood water is extremely damaging to the tree.