Summer Heat – Take Steps Now to Protect Your Trees

Summer is fast approaching – if not already here in some cases. While we may enjoy the warmth and sunshine, our trees often struggle to cope with the intense heat and dry conditions. Ensuring your trees are well-prepared for summer can make all the difference in their health and vitality. We’re here to help you take the necessary steps to protect your trees from the summer heat. In this article, we’ll cover essential tips on hydration, pest prevention, and overall maintenance to ensure your trees thrive during hot weather.

Hydration is Key

One of the most critical aspects of summer tree care is ensuring that your trees receive adequate water. Trees need consistent hydration to withstand the stress of high temperatures. Shallow watering can lead to weak root systems, making trees more vulnerable to heat stress. One way to address this is to focus on deep watering techniques that allow moisture to reach the tree’s root zone.

Water your trees early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation. Using a soaker hose or drip irrigation system can help deliver water directly to the roots, ensuring efficient use of water. For young trees, water them once a week, while mature trees can typically be watered every two to three weeks, depending on rainfall and soil conditions.

Mulching for Moisture Retention

Mulching is a simple yet highly effective method to retain soil moisture and regulate soil temperature. By applying a 2-4 inch layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or shredded bark, around the base of your trees, you can significantly reduce water loss through evaporation and help maintain consistent soil moisture levels.

Be careful not to pile mulch directly against the trunk, as this can lead to rot and attract pests. Instead, spread the mulch in a wide, even layer, keeping it a few inches away from the tree’s base. Mulching also helps suppress weeds, which compete with trees for water and nutrients.

Pruning and Maintenance

Pruning is vital to tree maintenance as it aids trees in withstanding the summer heat and promotes healthy growth. Removing branches that are dead or damaged will give the tree the energy to focus on maturing. When you prune, the air circulation within the tree canopy is also improved, which reduces the risk of fungal diseases. 

When you prune, make precise cuts with sharp, clean tools. Make sure to avoid over-pruning, since this may stress the tree and make it more vulnerable to pests and heat. For major pruning tasks, especially for large or mature trees, it’s best to seek the assistance of a certified arborist to ensure proper technique and safety.

Pest Prevention

When summer arrives, pests tend to appear in greater numbers. With this in mind, it is important to monitor your trees for infestation signs. There are common, yet damaging pests that thrive in the hot weather, including scale insects, spider mites, and aphids. You can check your trees regularly by looking for unusual signs like sticky residue (honeydew), discolored leaves, or the presence of small insects.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is an effective approach to managing pests while minimizing environmental harm. IPM involves a combination of methods, such as introducing beneficial insects (e.g., ladybugs and lacewings), using horticultural oils and insecticidal soaps, and implementing proper cultural practices like watering and mulching. If you’re unsure about identifying or treating pests, consider consulting a professional arborist.

Additional Summer Care Tips

• Protecting Tree Trunks: Young trees and trees with thin bark can suffer sunscald, which occurs when the intense summer sun damages the tree’s bark. To prevent this, wrap the trunks of young trees with tree guards or use a white tree wrap to reflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption.
• Soil Health and Fertilization: Healthy soil is the foundation of a healthy tree. Conduct a soil test to determine the nutrient levels and pH of your soil. Based on the results, you may need to amend the soil with organic matter or apply a balanced fertilizer to provide essential nutrients.

When you take proactive steps to prepare trees for the summer heat, you can ensure the overall health and resilience of your trees during the summer heat. By utilizing proper maintenance, deep watering, pest prevention, and mulching, you can keep your trees safe through even the hottest months. Trees give your property benefits in many ways, including adding beauty to your landscape and providing shade and cooling.

Schedule Your Tree Inspection Today!

Don’t wait until it’s too late! Schedule a tree inspection now to ensure your trees are well-prepared for summer and beyond. Our expert arborists will provide personalized care recommendations and identify any potential issues before they become serious problems.