Summer Tree Care: Helping Your Trees Thrive in the Heat

Summer brings sunshine, barbecues, and long days—but for trees, it also means heat stress, drought, pests, and fast growth. Unlike winter, when trees go dormant, summer is a time of active growth—and that makes it a critical season for care. Proper attention now ensures your trees not only survive but truly thrive.

Here are three key areas to focus on: roots, trunks, and branches.

Step 1: Nurturing Roots

💧 Water Deeply and Consistently
Summer heat dries out soil quickly. Water your trees early in the morning to minimize evaporation, and aim for deep, infrequent watering that reaches the root zone—don’t just wet the surface.

🌿 Mulch to Conserve Moisture
Apply 2–4 inches of mulch around the base of your trees (but keep it away from touching the trunk). Mulch helps retain soil moisture, regulates soil temperature, and keeps weeds at bay.

🕳️ Avoid Soil Compaction
Foot traffic and parked vehicles near trees can compress the soil, reducing oxygen flow to the roots. Keep the root zone clear of stressors to promote healthy growth.

Step 2: Shielding the Trunk

☀️ Prevent Sunscald and Heat Cracks
Young or thin-barked trees are particularly vulnerable to intense sun. Protect trunks with wraps or guards to prevent temperature-related damage.

🐛 Inspect for Pests
Warm weather wakes up pests like borers and beetles. Look for signs such as sap weeping, sawdust, or tiny entry holes. If you spot anything suspicious, don’t wait—call a professional.

🛠️ Avoid Mechanical Damage
Be careful when mowing or using trimmers near trees. Accidental bark damage opens the door for pests and disease.

Step 3: Supporting Branches and Foliage

✂️ Summer Pruning (With Care)
Light pruning is okay for shaping or removing deadwood, but avoid heavy cuts during peak heat. Over-pruning can stress the tree and reduce its ability to manage heat and pests.

🍃 Monitor Leaf Health
Wilting, yellowing, or premature leaf drop could signal water stress, pest problems, or disease. Keep an eye on the canopy—it’s your tree’s first way of showing distress.

🦟 Watch for Insects and Disease
Aphids, mites, and fungi thrive in warm, humid conditions. Use integrated pest management or consult your arborist for safe and effective treatments.

Your Trees Deserve Summer Support

🌳 With regular watering, mindful mulching, and a little attention to pests and pruning, your trees can stand tall through summer’s toughest days—rewarding you with cool shade, beautiful foliage, and cleaner air.

Need Help With Summer Tree Care?

Whether your trees need a quick trim or a full check-up, now’s the ideal time to take action. Don’t wait until it’s too hot — or too late. Estimates are always free, and we’re happy to stop by and take a look. Let’s keep your trees happy and your yard beautiful all summer long!

📞 802-356-2232
📧 newleaf.treevt@gmail.com
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