Why is supplemental watering crucial for supported trees?

Supplemental watering is crucial for supported trees primarily to prevent drought stress. Trees that are supported, especially in urban environments or areas experiencing periods of low rainfall, may not have access to sufficient moisture in the soil. This lack of water can lead to drought stress, which negatively impacts the tree's health, growth, and overall stability. By providing additional water, you help ensure that the tree's root system remains hydrated, enabling it to take up nutrients, maintain turgor pressure, and overall support healthy growth and resilience against environmental stressors.

In contrast, while enhancing aesthetic appearance, encouraging faster growth, and reducing pest infestations may be desirable outcomes associated with other cultural practices, these factors are not the primary reasons for the necessity of supplemental watering. The essential purpose of watering in this context is to maintain adequate moisture levels to support the tree, which can ultimately lead to better overall vigor and resistance to other potential issues.