A few days back, here in Bracknell, a large (and fairly ancient) Cedar
tree shed a large branch across a local path used by people going to
and from the shops - apparently (according to local press), it
narrowly missed falling on someone passing by in a wheelchair. The
local council have blamed the extended dry spell (we are running 65%
roughly of average rainfall since end-January) for the stress on the
tree - but I suppose it could be argued that the tree is pretty
ancient anyway ...... certainly it is beginning to be noticed that
leaves are simply 'shutting down' now - turning dry/brown (rather than
going through the traditional autumn change), so lack of moisture (and
high evapotranspiration) must be playing a part.


Martin.