Understanding the Monsoon
Monsoon is one of the most spectacular and dramatic events in the region. It brings a dazzling light show, strong forceful winds, and walls of dust often followed by abrupt copious rainfall. The desert region gladly accepts the summer rain; however, the monsoon can be catastrophic to your trees, if certain precautions are not taken. The first step begins with understanding the monsoon season.
The Science Behind the Monsoon
The summer monsoon begins in mid June and continues until the end of September. What causes this change in the weather? “The summer monsoon consists of winds from the Sea of Cortez flowing inland to fill the partial vacuum created by rising continental air warmed by the summer air. These winds bring moisture from the Pacific off of Baja California to move into the desert region. The westward moving winds actually circle around the area and reach the Sonoran Desert as southeasternly winds”.
The science of the monsoon corresponds to the original meaning of the word “monsoon”. Derived from an Arabic word for; season. It was applied to a wind that changes directions seasonally beginning in July. For a detailed diagram go to: Katherine K. Hirshboeck “Climate and Floods” National Water Summary 1988-89- Floods and Droughts Hydrology USGS Water Supply Paper 2375 (Washington DC 1991)
Damage Caused by Monsoon
Appreciating the strong wind shift that characterizes the monsoon can help us understand the potential damage this season can bring. The National Weather Service has proclaimed this Monsoon Safety Awareness Week. Safety begins at home. Most injuries during the monsoon are caused by flying or falling debris. The most likely danger is trees and branches falling. You will be able to minimize damage to your trees by making sure they are staked properly.
Staking a Tree
1. Use two stakes per tree.
2. Place the stakes outside the root ball at right angles to the direction of the heaviest wind.
3. In order to determine where to place the ties connecting the trunk to the stakes, loosely hold the base of the trunk with one hand allowing the canopy to bend to the side. Find the lowest point on the trunk at which the canopy can return to an upright position without stress after being bent to the side. Place ties six inches above this point. Attach the ties so that the line between the trunk and the stake is parallel to the ground.
4. Use strong wire for ties. Protect the trunk by putting the wire through garden hose. The garden hose should be just long enough to loop around the trunk. Twist wires to keep the garden hose from migrating.
Fasten wires to stake and twist to tighten. Wire should have sufficient slack to allow the trunk and garden hose to move as a unit.
5. Cut off the stakes below the lowest limbs of the canopy. It is very important to prevent limbs from rubbing against stakes.
“Inspect and loosen wires periodically as the tree grows. Support should be removed from the tree within one year after planting. It has been reported that growth is actually reduced if the supports are left in place for longer periods of time”. Arizona Master Gardener; University of Arizona
Phone Numbers and Websites to Remember:
For any questions or help regarding monsoon proofing your yard or other gardening/landscaping needs:
Moon Valley Nursery
602-938-6666
Professional Tree Trimming
24 hour Storm Damage
AACHEN Tree Service
480-699-3657 (Valley wide)
602-620-3060
| Over 25 years experience, Free Estimates, Insured |
For weather and storm advisories:
National Weather Service
Moon Valley Nursery wishes that you remain safe and that your yard remain in tack during this monsoon season. Visit Facebook for additional tips in monsoon proofing your yard.
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