Introduction

As the scorching days of late summer settle over Keller, TX, your trees face some of the most extreme environmental stressors of the year. High temperatures, intense sunlight, and low rainfall levels create a perfect storm for drought stress, pest infestations, and heat-related damage. August is not the time to take a hands-off approach when it comes to your landscape. This is when your trees need you most.

In this comprehensive guide from the ISA Certified Arborists at TreeNewal.com, we’ll walk you through an August tree care checklist tailored specifically for Keller homeowners. From watering smartly and spotting early signs of heat stress to soil management and pest control, we’re arming you with expert-level insights to keep your trees healthy, strong, and thriving through the tail end of the Texas summer.

Why August is a Critical Month for Tree Care

The month of August marks a pivotal point in the health of your trees. With the long summer already behind them, most trees are working overtime to conserve water and survive extreme heat. However, without proper care, they may succumb to stress, leaving them vulnerable to pests and diseases or even experiencing irreversible damage.

In Keller, where temperatures routinely hover above 95°F, late-summer tree maintenance is essential. August is also a precursor to early fall storms, which can wreak havoc on weakened or dying limbs. By focusing on preventative care now, you minimize the risk of larger problems later.

Understanding Drought Stress in Keller Trees

One of the biggest concerns during August is drought stress, which occurs when a tree loses more water than it can absorb from the soil. Without sufficient moisture, photosynthesis slows down, growth stagnates, and leaves may curl or drop prematurely.

Signs of Drought Stress:

• Wilting or curling leaves
• Leaf scorch (browning edges)
• Early leaf drop
• Thin canopy
• Cracks in the soil around the root zone

The impact of drought stress is cumulative and can weaken a tree’s immune system, making it a prime target for insect attacks and fungal infections. Once symptoms appear, immediate intervention is critical.

How to Water Trees Properly in the August Heat

Watering might seem straightforward, but many homeowners overwater, underwater, or water incorrectly, especially during peak heat.

Here’s how to get it right:

Deep, Infrequent Watering Is Key

Shallow watering promotes shallow root systems that can’t support trees during droughts. Instead, aim for deep watering sessions 1–2 times a week, depending on the tree species and soil type.

• Use a slow-drip system or a soaker hose to deliver water directly to the root zone.
• Ensure water penetrates 6–12 inches into the soil.
• Water early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation.

Mulch for Moisture Retention

Organic mulch is your best friend in August. A 2–4 inch layer around the base of the tree helps retain soil moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weed competition. Be sure to keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.

Heat-Related Damage: Spot It Early

Besides drought, extreme heat can cause sunscald, leaf scorch, and bark splitting in trees. While younger trees are more susceptible, mature trees under stress are also at risk.

Common Heat Damage Symptoms:

• White or bleached bark on the southwest side of the trunk
• Crispy, brown leaf margins
• Sunken, cracked bark areas
• Discolored or curled new growth

Protecting vulnerable trees can include physical shade barriers (for young trees) or pruning strategies to encourage healthy airflow and light distribution.

Inspect for Pests and Disease During Stress Periods

Stressed trees are easy targets for pests. Insects such as borers, scale, and spider mites tend to strike during late summer when trees are most vulnerable. Fungal infections like powdery mildew or sooty mold can also flourish in warm, humid environments.

How to Detect Issues Early:

• Look for sticky residue (honeydew) on leaves
• Check for holes in bark or sawdust-like material around the base
• Monitor leaf color, shape, and surface texture
• Inspect bark for cracks, peeling, or discoloration

Early detection allows for early intervention. Certified Arborists from TreeNewal can perform a thorough inspection and create a treatment plan using environmentally responsible solutions.

Strategic Pruning for Safety and Tree Health

While heavy pruning should be avoided during intense heat, light pruning of dead, diseased, or hazardous branches can be beneficial in August. Removing compromised limbs reduces the risk of breakage during storms and improves airflow through the canopy.

Pruning also helps manage the tree’s energy distribution. Instead of using resources to support damaged branches, the tree can focus on healthy growth.

TreeNewal’s ISA Certified Arborists apply strategic pruning techniques that consider species, season, and the tree’s structural integrity.

Fertilization and Soil Health in Late Summer

Fertilizing during August requires caution. Trees are under enough stress from the heat, so heavy fertilization can do more harm than good. However, soil health is vital to overall tree vigor.

Late-Summer Soil Strategies:

• Conduct a soil test to identify nutrient deficiencies
• Apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer if needed
• Use compost or organic matter to improve soil structure and microbial activity

Healthy soil promotes deeper root growth and increases the tree’s ability to absorb water and nutrients efficiently.

Preparing for Storm Season

Late August often brings the beginning of storm season in Keller. Trees with weak branches, shallow root systems, or poor structure are particularly vulnerable to wind and lightning damage.

Take action now by:

• Inspecting for structural weaknesses
• Cabling or bracing vulnerable limbs
• Removing deadwood
• Anchoring young trees with stakes if needed

Preventive maintenance can protect not just your trees but your home and family.

How TreeNewal Can Help You This August

The August tree care checklist for Keller, TX isn’t just a summer to-do list—it’s a proactive strategy to safeguard your trees during the most stressful time of year. However, not all tree issues are obvious, and many problems lurk below the surface.

That’s where TreeNewal comes in.

Why Choose TreeNewal?

• ISA Certified Arborists on every job
• Deep knowledge of North Texas tree species and climate conditions
• Environmentally friendly, science-backed treatment plans
• Emergency response and storm-preparation services

Whether you need a mid-summer health check, help with watering issues, or a pest prevention strategy, TreeNewal provides expert, ethical, and effective tree care tailored to your landscape.

Final Thoughts: Your Trees Deserve Expert Care

Your trees are a long-term investment—and how you care for them in August directly impacts their ability to survive the rest of the year. When heat, drought, and storms collide, proactive care is not just a good idea—it’s essential.

Don’t wait until leaves drop or limbs snap. Get ahead of the issues now with a targeted tree care plan developed by TreeNewal’s ISA Certified Arborists.

 Ready to protect your trees this August?

Visit TreeNewal.com to schedule a professional assessment. With expert guidance, your trees can stay healthy, strong, and beautiful through even the harshest Texas summer.

Photo by Marcos Llerena on Unsplash