Buckeyes Bonking and Hawthorns Hitting the Wall

"Bonks," and “hitting the wall,” are jargon terms used by athletes. From lack of water or nutrition, activity suddenly becomes more difficult. Ordinarily simple movements seem to require more energy than normal.

Medical experts tell us we need to drink water several times during the day. Similarly, horticulturists tell us that during the heat of the summer our landscapes need water three times a week. Proper hydration and watering are top of mind during the summer when thirst comes quickly and landscapes wilt under Colorado’s hot sun.

Skiers, runners, hikers and cyclists must vigilantly hydrate during cold weather when they don’t experience thirst as readily. The same applies to your landscape. Even during the colder months,  your yard's moisture needs are not as apparent, but essential nonetheless. We think of winter landscape as being dormant--no activity, asleep, almost inanimate. But in fact, although at a reduced rate, chemical reactions including energy manufacturing and consumption continue.

Photosynthesis – energy production
Photosynthesis is the process by which green leaves produce energy for the plant. However, photosynthesis isn’t just for leaves. By scraping a young twig, you will see the green tissue beneath the thin bark. This is a sign that energy (starch) is being produced in the wood. This process requires water.

Growth – energy consumption
Pinch or pull off a leaf bud. These tissues are moist and supple. Active cell division occurs here and energy is actively consumed by the plant to keep these parts alive and ready for Spring emergence. Water must continue to flow to buds throughout the winter for survival.

Just as in humans, the lack of water in plants initially slows plant processes down, requiring more energy to be expended. In severe drought, plant parts completely desiccate and die. Adequate soil moisture is paramount. In the absence of precipitation, watering is needed monthly and sometimes every couple of weeks for newly planted and stressed trees or shrubs.

Consult these sources for more precise recommendations:
https://secure.cusiwebpay.com/sites/willows/files/TreeCareDryClimates.pdf
http://www.ext.colostate.edu/pubs/garden/07211.html

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