In last months’ Chew Valley Gazette we wrote about the interminable drought, and as we write , we are still in the midst of it.

Though we have so far escaped a hosepipe ban, the Chew Valley seems as badly off as the rest of the country in terms of surface moisture, with fields turning beyond-golden and trees taking on autumnal hues before their time.

Trees planted this year will be suffering in these extreme temperatures, particularly if they are one- or two- year old whips; but any trees still establishing a root structure will be needing extra care and attention.

The rains of the winter and the ‘bedding in’ the trees may have received will be swiftly undone by this sustained period of dry. And with the impacts of climate change increasing, there’s no reason to assume that this year’s weather is exceptional; it’s more likely this is going to be the ‘new normal’.

So how can we best look after newly planted trees whilst they establish themselves?

Mulch hard around the base of trees. Mulch is organic material - ideally well rotted wood chip, but can be cardboard with cut grass, or commercially available materials - that will both keep the competition of grass at bay and hold moisture so that the young tree can feed from this, as well as support beneficial communities of microflora.

Another material that can be used is biochar, which is starting to be produced in the Valley - more on this in another month. A good mulch will retain the water that falls on it and provide ongoing sustenance to the young trees.

Water when you can. This is not always feasible, but if and when you can do it, the trees will so appreciate it. And if you have a mulch in place, that moisture will be retained for the benefit of the tree.