Soil compaction Soil compaction over a tree's roots, due to equipment operation, material storage, or paving, can prevent moisture from reaching roots. As a result of construction, the grade around a tree may be lowered, altering drainage patterns and making the site either wet or dry. In sandy soils increase the rate to 5 cubic yards per 1,000 square feet. Drying winds Drying winds can seriously increase the effects of drought. In coastal regions, winds carry both salt and sand, causing abrasions to leaves and stems as well as desiccation.
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.