Warm summer days are the best time to relax in the backyard and enjoy summer activities with the family. It is essential to prepare the trees for the summer to keep the landscape healthy. The harsh summer heat can take a toll not only on humans but also on trees. Intense heat, moisture, storms, and pests are a part of the long hot season. If you want to see the trees survive and flourish in the hottest summer days, quality care and maintenance are essential.
Here are a few summer tree care tips to keep the trees growing strong so you can continue to relish their shade:
Watering
The roots and the soil can dry out quickly during the hot weather. Watering trees, especially the newly planted ones, is very important for effective summer care. Make sure not to overwater as it can have a negative effect. On average, a tree requires an inch of water every week. Avoid using sprinklers and focus on the critical root zone while watering. Consider the amount of local rainfall to decide if the trees need additional watering. Consider deep and full irrigation rather than shallow and frequent. It is recommended to water the trees in the morning or late afternoon to avoid evaporation.
Mulching
Mulching is vital for effective tree care. Though it is best when done in spring, the start of summer is also a good time. Mulching is essential to limit weed invasion, conserve moisture, control soil temperature, and stabilize the soil. Surround your trees with 3-4 inches of shredded hardwood mulch to keep the trees healthy.
Pruning
Pruning helps in improving tree health and encouraging strong growth. The majority of pruning is usually done when the trees are dormant. During summer, it is beneficial to remove only dead, damaged, and infected branches. Don’t prune or trim too much, or it can do more harm than good. Flowering shrubs and trees should not be pruned until the end of the blooming period. Call a tree service professional for effective pruning.
Soil care
Soil care is essential as many tree problems emanate from poor soil structure. The quality of soil affects the health of the trees. Properly fertilize the soil, especially in urban or suburban environments, to ensure the trees get the right nutrition to grow and keep pests and diseases at bay.
Pest inspection
Regularly examining the trees for pests and diseases during summer by a professional arborist can help control the issues before they get out of hand. Warm weather is ideal for pest infestation that can affect both the infected tree and the neighboring ones. Common summer pests to look for are wilt, spider mites, lace bugs, Japanese, beetles, sawflies, leaf spot, aphids, and bagworms.
Storm Preparation
Heavy rains and winds during a summer storm can be hazardous for trees and your property. Remove, brace, or cable weak limbs to prevent damage. Get the trees inspected by a tree service professional to determine their safety.
Trees are a great addition to any yard. Following a routine tree maintenance schedule throughout the hot summer months is a perfect way to ensure that the trees stay happy and healthy year-round. If you find it complicated, time-consuming, and stressful, call an experienced tree service professional to inspect and offer expert advice on summer tree care. They offer tree trimming, removal, and pruning services to keep the trees sturdy, healthy, and attractive so that you can enjoy a flourishing yard the whole summer.
Chuck’s Tree Service offers tree trimming and pruning, palm tree trimming, and tree removal, in Pasco, Hernando and Pinellas Counties. 24/7 emergency service. Call us today at 352-747-8182!