October is typically the driest month of the year in Livingston Parish, and 2026 followed that pattern. Rainfall has steadily declined since July, with both September and October receiving only about half of their normal precipitation. As a result, drought conditions have intensified across much of Louisiana. The U.S. Drought Monitor currently classifies much of the state as being in severe, extreme, or exceptional drought. Unfortunately, long-range forecasts offer little indication of significant rainfall in the weeks ahead.
These conditions present challenges for gardeners because fall and winter are traditionally the best times to plant trees and shrubs. Cooler temperatures reduce stress on newly planted landscapes and allow root systems to establish before the heat of next summer arrives. Most tree and shrub roots are concentrated within the upper 18 inches of soil, which is also the zone most affected by drought.
As soil becomes increasingly dry, it often repels water, making it more difficult to restore adequate moisture. Water applied too quickly may run off rather than soak into the root zone where it is needed. Slow, deep watering is the most effective approach for rehydrating dry soil. Drip irrigation, soaker hoses, or a slow trickle from a garden hose over an extended period will allow moisture to penetrate deeper into the soil profile. Homeowners planning to install trees and shrubs this season should thoroughly moisten planting areas before planting and continue monitoring soil moisture after installation.
Dry conditions can create additional challenges during winter. Moist soil retains heat more effectively than dry soil, helping buffer plant roots against sudden temperature changes. Dry soil generally provides less insulation, increasing the risk of root injury during a hard freeze. Maintaining adequate soil moisture throughout the cooler months can help protect root systems from both drought stress and cold damage.
Even deciduous trees that have dropped their leaves may require supplemental irrigation during extended dry periods. Although dormant above ground, their roots remain alive and continue to need moisture. Root injury that occurs during drought often goes unnoticed until spring growth begins. In some cases, the full effects may not become evident for a year or more, making prevention far more effective than trying to correct damage later.
Newly planted trees and shrubs are particularly vulnerable to drought stress because their roots have not yet spread into surrounding soil. As a general guideline, newly planted trees should receive 10 to 15 gallons of water once or twice per week when rainfall is inadequate. Newly planted shrubs should be watered deeply enough to moisten the root ball and surrounding soil once or twice weekly. Established trees and shrubs generally require less frequent irrigation, but during severe drought they may benefit from a deep soaking every two to three weeks. Sandy soils will typically require more frequent watering than heavier clay soils.
Rather than watering on a fixed schedule, check soil moisture regularly and adjust irrigation as needed. A simple method is to dig down two or three inches near the root zone and feel the soil. If the soil is dry to the touch, it is time to water. Avoid light, frequent watering, which encourages shallow root growth and reduces a plant's ability to tolerate future drought. Deep, infrequent watering is generally more effective for promoting healthy root development. Watering thoroughly before a freeze is also beneficial because well-hydrated plants are generally more resilient to cold injury than drought-stressed plants.
Mulch is another valuable tool for conserving soil moisture. Apply a three- to four-inch layer of pine straw, pine bark, wood chips, or other organic mulch around newly planted trees and shrubs. Mulch helps reduce evaporation, moderates soil temperatures, and suppresses weeds that compete for moisture. However, avoid piling mulch against trunks or stems. Keep mulch 6 to 12 inches away from tree trunks and at least 3 inches away from the base of shrubs to help prevent disease, insect problems, and stem damage.
Although drought conditions present challenges, properly managed fall plantings can still be successful. By maintaining adequate soil moisture and using mulch correctly, homeowners can help trees and shrubs establish strong root systems and enter spring in the best possible condition. With drought expected to persist across much of Louisiana, the landscapes that receive attention now will be better prepared to withstand winter stresses and thrive when growth resumes next spring.
