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Sourwood Establishment: Walter's Rule of Trunk Caliper Years

Sourwood leaf scorch (brown edges) indicates water stress in a newly planted tree. Walter's Rule: trunk diameter (inches) at 12" height = years to establishment.

Immediate Care

Weekly deep watering until next fall
Remove fertilizer—it forced top growth roots can't support
Sourwood is tough; consistent moisture will pull it through

Your 5-foot tree likely has a 1-2" trunk—expect 1-2 years of babying before independence.

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