Understanding Texas Climate: Tree Care Tips for a Healthy Summer

Homeowners have much to consider as spring turns to summer in Dallas, especially with landscaping. It’s important not to risk the welfare of the trees in the yard. Ensuring they stay healthy during the hottest season of the year in Texas takes work. This article shares a few tree care tips for this season.

Remember To Water

Image via Pexels by Petr Ganaj

Spring is the season of growth in Texas, and now that the days are heating up, property owners need to focus on preserving this glorious landscape. One of the best ways to accomplish this task is to apply adequate water throughout the dry season. Many local trees can handle the heat and easily survive difficult summer conditions with proper care, but they do have limits.
Extended droughts in Dallas can take a heavy toll on trees. So once temperatures stay above 90 degrees Fahrenheit, a homeowner needs to get out the hose at least three days a week and give them a good soaking. Even drought-resistant and heat-tolerant species like Bur oaks need a frequent drink. While the amount required varies by species, a good rule of thumb is to saturate the area around the trunk thoroughly.

Replenish Mulch

Spring is the ideal time for homeowners to add mulch to their trees. This defensive layer keeps the soil wet and cool, even during August. It could be getting thin in spots, so they might need to add to the existing layer to help conserve moisture. A depth of at least 2 inches around the tree is ideal. It’s important to note that keeping the mulch a few inches from the base of the trunk helps prevent damage and disease. Over-mulching creates additional problems, such as starving the soil of oxygen, which can suffocate the roots.

Fertilize for Good Nutrition

Adding compost to a tree’s root zones throughout the year can improve soil quality. But that may not be enough to ensure the roots thrive until autumn. Homeowners should have an expert Dallas tree service test the soil to check if it needs a dose of fertilizer. There are numerous benefits to fertilizing trees during the summer. By providing the necessary nutrients for growth and biological processes, the color and appearance of trees will improve. They’ll also become more resistant to the season’s numerous insects, diseases, and environmental pressures.

Monitor Tree Health

The tree’s crown is full in the summer, so it’s the ideal time to inspect for health issues. Homeowners should look closely for any signs of damage from insects or other pests, diseases, and rot. A trusted Dallas tree service can help if there’s anything unusual. It can diagnose what’s ailing the tree and provide a plan to restore its health through good nutrition, fertilization, and soil testing.
The days are only getting longer and hotter in Dallas, and summers here are tough, even on native trees. TreeNewal, the area’s premier Dallas tree services company, can help. Our ISA-certified arborists are highly trained professionals that can provide top tree care tips for a healthy summer.