Easy Summer Solutions

Summer is officially here and it’s a busy time for homeowners. 

With warmer weather, there are so many outdoor projects to tackle – from mowing the lawn and trimming hedges to planting flowers and taking care of trees. But when it comes to tree care, summer can be especially tricky. That’s why we’ve put together this list of 9 summer tree care tips for homeowners. These tips will help you keep your trees healthy during the hottest months of the year, so you can enjoy their beauty all season long! Keep reading to learn more about how you can take proper care of your trees this summer.

HERE ARE 9 TIPS TO CARE FOR YOUR TREES, THIS SUMMER

1. Get Your Trees Inspected BEFORE It Gets Too Hot

With summertime comes hot weather and although we might enjoy the sunny days, sometimes trees do not agree with extreme temperatures. It is important that you get your trees inspected before it gets too hot because your trees might be prone to contracting heat stress. Heat stress is something that can damage your trees, and the effects will last awhile. So, you’ve got to make sure that you’re vigilant and getting your trees inspected before the damage is done. There are many signs that signal that your tree is affected by heat stress. Some of these signs are: brown and dry leaf edges, wilting and yellow leaves, fruit or flowers dropping—watch out for immature fruit, leaves and branches dropping. If you catch these signs, then there’s a chance that something is wrong. You’re going to want to keep an eye on the signs of heat damage, because the damage can be irreversible. If you know how to keep your trees healthy, before heat stress or any other problem strikes, then you’re more likely to have trees that are healthy.

2. Prune for Growth

It is important that you keep your trees well-groomed, if you want them to be as healthy as possible. Just like other plants, you’re going to need to regularly prune your trees. The needs of trees change as they get older, so depending on the type of tree that you have, you’re going to have to prune them differently. Take into consideration the age and type of trees that you have, and prune accordingly. Our arborist can guide you to what specific pruning your trees need. We make our recommendations based on the age, species, and condition of each tree.

3. Water consistently

With heat stress that comes in the summer, often comes water stress. Water is a tree’s greatest need. Everything trees do require water. You’re going to want to make sure that you water your plants smart, otherwise there might be health problems that arise. Water-stressed trees are going to need extra care. Start watering in the late spring before the dry days of the summer. Once the soil is dry it is very difficult to get the water to percolate 6-12 inches. Trees require very long and slow watering processes. Don’t water your trees as frequently as you would water your shrubs and turf.

5. Fertilize Smart

You’re going to want to make sure that you know the specifics of what fertilizer you’re using on your trees, because fertilizer has the potential to affect your trees, negatively in the summer. For example, you’re not going to want to apply a high-nitrogen fertilizer to your trees in the summer.  Fertilizing your trees is very important but is best in the spring or Fall.   If a tree is stressed in the summer, it is best to be deep watered with a low nitrogen fertilizer or bio-stimulant.

6. Keep an eye out for Pests

Insects are attracted to stressed trees so if your trees are stressed they are more likely to have insect issues.   Keep an eye out for insects that feed on leaves stems or the trunks or your trees.  These insects can further weaken trees if not treated.

7. look for disease

Disease is a signal that your trees are unhealthy. If you notice spots on the leaves, early leaf drop, or staining on the trunk there may be disease present. Make sure that you’re looking out for the early signs of diseases. We go over the signs of heat stress, in this article, but there are other kinds of diseases that your tree can contract. Pests can make your trees contract diseases, too, so it’s a good idea to keep pests away from your trees, to avoid diseases. If you see anything on your trees that look suspicious, a good first step is to contact your arborist for specific help. Catching things early is always the best.

8. Check Your Soil

Soil moisture is the most important thing for the health of your trees.   Check the moisture under your trees by using a trowel to dig a small diameter hole three inches wide and 3-6 inches deep.  If the soil you dig cannot be clumped in your hands it is too dry.  As we mentioned before start watering your trees in late spring before it’s too dry.  Once the soil is dry its very difficult to get the water to percolate.

9. Prepare for Summer Storms

During the summer, oftentimes there are storms that are stronger than in other months. To avoid any damage to your trees, you’re going to want to make sure that you’re prepared for the possible damage that comes during the summer months.  if you think that your trees are at risk for falling down, it is best to contact a professional who can consult you as to what the best next steps are for your trees. The best way to abate the risk of storm damage is have your trees inspected and maintained before the storms come.

If you have questions about tree services or health care, or would like an estimate- give us a call at (540)746-6055 or click here to contact us.