1. Water. Early morning is the best time… otherwise most of the irrigation water evaporates. Deep soaking is best because it gives the plant a greater reservoir to draw from.

2. Native tree care. This month generally turns out to be pretty hot and dry. Remember your trees are going to be thirsty too. A small amount of rain does little to carry moisture deep into the soil.

3. Mulch. This will cool the roots and slow the water loss from evaporation. Mixing your mulch 50:50 (bag-for-bag) with ...