Reply To: University project: Tree pit watering ‘app’

[Thomas J. Johnson]

Hi Callum,

Sounds cool but maybe a bit contrived. I’m not sure that’s how people in the field would really handle tree watering.

It seems like the tree either has irrigation (best), a watering bag, or occasional hand watering. If I had to guess, most trees die from not getting enough water because people are lazy, forgetful or the budget doesn’t take into account someone physically watering (soaking) the tree twice a week. Getting the tree in the ground is only a small part of the labor involved in it’s success. Watering by hand or water bag is labor intensive and is often overlooked.

Another problem I see a lot of is trees not planted properly. The hole needs to be 2-3 times the size of the rootball and heavily amended. The nursery soil level of the trunk needs to be maintained (ie not planted too deep or too shallow) and there needs to be a dish / lip / ring around the pit to keep water around the rootball.

Watering trees isn’t rocket science. Keep the soil moist. In most climates that requires 2-3 good soaks a week and any decent contractor will know what the watering requirements are. If they don’t, an app isn’t going to help them.

I don’t mean to rain on your parade but I just don’t see the need. If you want to design a cool “tree” app, how about one that will identify a tree based on a picture of it’s bark and/or leaf.

See a tree. Wonder what it is. Take a picture of it’s bark. App tells you what tree it is… That, I would buy… If I owned a smart phone…