Q: We bought what we believe to be an Arizona mesquite around April of last year. It was transplanted right away and watered about once a week, as the nursery worker said it didnβt need much water.
Fast forward to around September or October and the leaves started to turn yellow and brown. New leaves were still growing, and they were coming in green.
During the winter the leaves fell and weβre still waiting for new leaves to grow.
After checking for green under the bark and seeing if the branches snap off, it seems as though the little tree is still alive β barely. Any tips on getting it to grow or how to keep it alive?
A:Β It seems you took care of the tree properly although I am not sure how much water you gave it. Mesquites normally shed some leaves in the fall but they also shed leaves if they are too dry. If your tree is still bare now, it may not have received enough water.
Assuming it is still alive, the best you can do is to water it properly. That means once every two to three weeks now that the tree is established. The water should reach a depth of 24 inches and drip irrigation around the root zone is best.
Peter L. Warren is the Forest Health Program Coordinator for the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management. Questions, photos and videos may be emailed toΒ tucsongardensage@gmail.com
