Frequently Asked Questions About Summer Tree Care

Summer is a crucial time for tree care, as the hot weather can pose various challenges for tree health. To ensure your trees thrive during the summer months, and all year, some elements of care are essential. As tree care professionals, we hear a lot of questions, and below are a few of the most common. Below, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions about summer tree care.

Why is Summer Tree Care Important?

Summer is a period of significant growth for trees, but the season also brings stress due to higher temperatures, increased pests, and potential drought conditions. Proper summer tree care helps maintain tree health, supports growth, and prevents damage.

Do I Need an Annual Tree Inspection?

Though an annual tree inspection can be conducted at any point throughout the year, the start of summer is an ideal time to request an inspection, especially for those who have never done so before. As the end of spring marks the beginning of summer storms, a professional tree care company can spot structural weaknesses and suggest preventive measures to reduce summer storm damage vulnerability before inclement weather occurs. In addition, a professional tree care company can find and treat pests, such as emerald ash borer, before they cause irreversible damage and kill your trees. Annual inspections will help you keep your trees well-maintained and promote safety for you and your neighbors.

How Often Should I Water My Trees in the Summer?

Tree watering is vital during hot summer months and proper watering is going to depend on a few things, like how old the trees are and what species of tree they are. Different species of trees are going to require different watering amounts and techniques so do some research on what kind of trees you have and how best to take care of them in summer. A consultation with a certified arborist can help you get the answers as well.

• Young Trees: Many homeowners wonder how to care for new trees and watering is one of the concerns. Newer trees will require more of your attention and more frequent watering, usually once a week, to establish roots.
• Established Trees: Trees that have been established for a few years are going to be able to predict and deal with the annual water availability to an extent, but you may still need to help out during unusual droughts. These trees may need deep root watering every two to three weeks. Deep root watering is the process of watering the deep roots of a tree instead of just watering the surface. Most people water the ground surface near their trees, but this water quickly evaporates before reaching the roots. Shallow watering can lead to shallow, unhealthy root systems, which makes a tree more prone to falling over during storms and winds. Deep root watering alleviates this issue by carrying water roughly one foot into the roots, promoting healthier and deeper growth. Ensure the soil is moistened to a depth of 12-18 inches.
• Soil Type and Weather Conditions: Adjust watering based on soil type (sandy soils drain faster than clay) and recent weather conditions (more water during dry spells).

What Are the Signs of Overwatering or Underwatering?

Recognizing the signs of overwatering and underwatering can prevent significant damage. Some of these signs are:

• Overwatering: Yellowing leaves, a musty odor, and fungus growth around the base of the tree.
• Underwatering: Wilting leaves, dry soil, and leaves that are yellowing or browning around the edges.

How Can I Protect My Trees from Summer Pests?

Pests can be particularly problematic in the summer. Storms often invite pest activity to thrive in trees and many, such as EAB or spotted lanternfly, cause major damage. A professional tree care company can monitor insect invasion and contain the spread of infectious diseases throughout your trees and surrounding property. Consult our specialists today to stop problems before they escalate. In general, the following steps can help protect your trees.

• Regular Inspections: Check your trees regularly for signs of pests, such as holes in leaves, sticky residue, or visible insects.
• Proper Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of your trees to retain moisture and reduce weed growth, which can attract pests.
• Remove Tree Stumps: Tree stumps are unattractive and often unsafe in a landscape. They can also attract pests. Have a professional tree care company remove or grind the stump if a tree falls or has to be cut down. Stein offers stump grinding services and can backfill the hole as well.
• Professional Treatments: If infestations occur, consult with a tree care professional for safe and effective pest control treatments.

Is Pruning Necessary During the Summer?

Scheduled tree trimming and pruning are recommended on a regular basis. Pruning trees to remove weak limbs results in stronger, more wind-resistant trees, while often increasing tree longevity. Sometimes pruning can even be used to enhance flowering! Depending on the tree, summer pruning can be beneficial, and is best done by a professional:

• Dead or Diseased Branches: Remove these to prevent the spread of disease and improve tree health.
• Shape and Size Control: Light pruning can help manage the tree’s shape and size, but heavy pruning, especially during the growth season, can stress the tree.
• Timing: Prune in late summer or early fall to avoid stimulating new growth that may not harden before winter.

How Can I Prevent Heat Stress in Trees?

Heat stress can severely affect tree health. To mitigate this problem the following practices are recommended:

• Mulching: A 2-4 inch layer of mulch helps retain soil moisture and regulate soil temperature.
• Adequate Watering: Ensure trees are adequately watered, especially during heat waves.
• Shading: If possible, when heat is excessive, provide temporary shade for young or newly planted trees using shade cloths or other materials.

What Are the Benefits of Mulching?

Mulch helps your trees by generally promoting and cultivating tree health. Some of the advantages mulching your trees provides are:

Moisture Retention: Helps retain soil moisture by reducing evaporation.
Weed Control: Suppresses weed growth, reducing competition for nutrients and water.
Soil Temperature Regulation: Keeps soil temperatures cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.
Improves Soil Structure: Organic mulch decomposes and improves soil fertility and structure.

How Should I Fertilize My Trees in the Summer?

Fertilizing helps support growth and replenishes nutrients, and fertilizing early in the summer supports growth throughout the season. Homeowners should use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer and apply around the drip line (the area under the canopy) rather than directly at the base.

Can I Use Pesticides During the Summer?

Yes, homeowners can use pesticides, but we recommend doing so with caution:

• Choose the Right Time: Apply pesticides during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening, to avoid harming the tree.
• Follow Instructions: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe and effective use. Be mindful about possible harmful effects on other trees, insects and animals in the area.

My Tree is Too Tall-Can I Just Take Some Height Off of the Top?

Another very common query is regarding trees that are too tall for the area they are in. If you are considering planting a tree, be sure that the tree is the right type for the space allowed. For those that have outgrown their space, we recommend a professional pruning plan over time when possible. In some situations, the only viable solution is to remove the tree. Tree topping, the practice of cutting off a whole section of the top of the tree, is something that is harmful physically and aesthetically to the tree.

What Could be Wrong if my Tree Starts Dropping Leaves in the Summer?

The most common reason for this occurrence is dry and hot temperatures. As part of your regular summer tree care routine, ensuring that your trees are getting as much water as they need is important. Some trees require specific types of soil, or prefer more sunlight than others, so if a tree is planted in the wrong zone or type of soil, tree vitality could suffer. Another problem could be that nearby construction or heavy foot traffic has caused compaction of the soil. Even if the activity happened months ago, the impact on the tree roots and their ability to transport nutrients could continue to harm the tree over time.

Contact Stein Tree Service for Summer Tree Care

Proper summer tree care is essential to maintain the health and beauty of your trees. By following these guidelines and addressing the frequently asked questions about summer tree care, you can ensure your trees thrive even in the hottest months. If you have other summer tree care questions, call Stein Tree Service for answers. Our experienced tree care specialists have provided residential tree service to many communities in Pennsylvania and Delaware for decades. We have state-of-the-art equipment, and our staff is ready for immediate response. Contact Stein Tree Service for a free consultation.

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