Summer Heat – Take Steps Now to Protect Your Trees

Summer is fast approaching – if not already here in some cases. Although the sunshine and heat bring a lot of pleasure, our trees often struggle with the dry conditions and intense heat. One way to ensure your trees are healthy is to prepare them for the summer. We’re here to help you take the necessary steps to protect your trees from the summer heat. In this article, we will go over ways to properly hydrate your trees, prevent them from pests, and overall maintenance you can engage in to ensure your trees thrive during the hot weather and beyond! 

Hydration is Key

Ensuring your trees receive enough water is one of the most critical elements of summer tree care. With the stress of high temperatures, trees need consistent hydration to survive and thrive. If you only provide shallow watering, you may be doing more damage than you think. Shallow watering can lead to a weak root system, which makes a tree more vulnerable to heat stress. Aim to allow moisture to reach the root zone of the tree through deep watering techniques. 

To reduce the risk of daytime evaporation, water your trees in the early morning or late evening. Using a drip irrigation system or soaker hose can send water directly to the roots, ensuring efficient use of water. If you have 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 an easy way to effectively regulate soil temperature and retain soil moisture. By applying a 2-4 inch layer of organic mulch, such as shredded bark or wood chips, around the base of your trees, you can significantly reduce water loss through evaporation and help maintain consistent soil moisture levels.

When applying the mulch, avoid piling directly against the trunk. This may attract pests or lead to rot in your tree. Keep the mulch a few inches from the tree base and spread it in a wide, even layer. Another benefit of mulch is its ability to suppress weeds that would otherwise compete with the trees for nutrients and water. 

Pruning and Maintenance

Pruning is an essential part of tree maintenance that promotes healthy growth and helps trees withstand summer heat. By removing dead or damaged branches, you allow the tree to focus its resources on maturing. Pruning also improves air circulation within the tree canopy, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.

When pruning, use clean, sharp tools to make precise cuts. Avoid over-pruning, as this can stress the tree and make it more susceptible to heat and pests. 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 harm to the environment. 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

• 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.
• 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.

Taking proactive steps to prepare your trees for summer heat can significantly improve their resilience and overall health. By focusing on deep watering, mulching, pest prevention, and proper maintenance, you can ensure your trees thrive even in the hottest months. Remember, healthy trees not only enhance the beauty of your landscape but also provide shade and cooling benefits, making your outdoor space more enjoyable.

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 potential issues before they become serious problems.