Darmstadt calls on citizens for support due to heat and drought
The ongoing heat and drought continue to take their toll on trees in Darmstadt. Young and very old trees are particularly affected, suffering from the lack of rain. The City of Darmstadt is therefore calling on its citizens to water trees in their own gardens as well as, if possible, city trees in their neighborhoods.
Michael Kolmer, head of the city's parks department, emphasizes that every tree contributes to the urban climate – regardless of whether it stands on public or private land. While lawns usually recover quickly after prolonged periods of drought, drought damage to trees is often irreversible.
Approximately 100 liters of water per week is recommended
Those who wish to help should ideally provide about 100 liters of water per tree per week . However, even smaller amounts of water are helpful in the current situation.
Only clean drinking water or rainwater should be used . According to the city, pool water or other contaminated utility water is not suitable for irrigation.
The city is watering up to 1,400 young trees
The city itself regularly waters around 1,400 young trees . Additionally, depending on weather conditions and need, older trees and trees in particularly dry locations are also watered.
The parks department is supported by a network of 50 soil sensorsthat measure soil moisture. This allows irrigation to be precisely tailored to each location. Depending on the weather, between eight and 16 irrigation cycles are carried out per season. This year, the city expects to have to utilize the upper end of that range.
Every liter counts
The city points out that a dead tree not only detracts from the cityscape and the climate, but also incurs considerable costs for replacement plantings. Therefore, any support can help to preserve the city's green spaces in the long term.
(DARMSTADT – RED/PSD/stip)
