Summer brings sunshine, warmth, and the perfect opportunity to enjoy your outdoor spaces. However, it can also be a stressful time for your trees. Trees can struggle with the heat, drought, and pests that are all common during the summer months. At Green Pine Tree Services, we believe that healthy trees are the foundation of a beautiful landscape. Here’s how to keep your trees thriving all summer long.
Water Wisely
During the summer, the number one thing your trees need is water. But it’s not just about how frequent you do it, it’s also about how and when you water your trees.
Deep watering is the best option. Instead of sprinkling the surface, use a slow trickle or soaker hose to get water deep into the soil. It is recommended to water your trees once or twice a week. This allows moisture to reach 8 to 12 inches below the surface.
Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation and help trees retain moisture throughout the day.
Watch your young trees closely. Young trees need more frequent watering, especially in the first 2 to 3 years after planting.
Mulch for Moisture and Protection
Mulch is a tree’s best friend during the summer. Adding a 2 to 4 inch layer of organic mulch (like bark, wood chips, or compost) around the base of your tree helps:
● Retain soil moisture
● Regulate soil temperature
● Suppress weeds
● Prevent damage from mowers and trimmers
Just remember to keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk to avoid rotting and pests.
Prune Carefully
While heavy pruning should be done in late winter or early spring, light summer pruning is helpful for removing:
● Dead or damaged branches
● Limbs that pose safety hazards
● Suckers or water sprouts
Avoid major pruning in the heat of summer, as it can stress the tree and increase its vulnerability to disease and pests.
Check for Pests and Diseases
Summer is the peak season for insects and diseases that can harm your trees. Keep an eye out for:
● Wilting, yellowing, or spotted leaves
● Unusual growths or holes in the bark
● Excessive sap or sawdust around the base
If you notice any of these signs, call Green Pine Tree Services to assess and treat the issue before it spreads.
Avoid Over-Fertilizing
Too much fertilizer during the summer can do more harm than good, especially if your tree is already stressed by heat. If your trees are healthy and growing well, they may not need any fertilizer at all.
Protect the Roots
Avoid compacting soil around the base of your tree with heavy foot traffic or equipment. Compacted soil limits water and oxygen access, which can stress the root system creating a mulch ring or small garden bed around the base can help protect this vital area.
Trust Green Pine Tree Services
Caring for your trees in summer takes attention and effort, but the reward is a healthy, beautiful landscape all year long. If you need help with tree care, inspections, or maintenance, the experts at Green Pine Tree Services are here to help. Contact us today for a consultation and let your trees flourish this summer!
