Heat Isn’t the Only Problem for Your Trees in Summer

Did you know that heat is not the only thing that harms trees in summer? In fact, many people do not realize that summer is actually one of the most damaging times of year for trees. Heat stress, pests, diseases, and more are all common problems during the summer months. If you want to protect your trees, it is important to understand the dangers that summer poses and take steps to mitigate the damage. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most common summer tree problems and how to handle and even prevent them.

Summer Tree Care

Heat Stress

Heat stress is without question the most common tree problem during summer for North Texas trees. Heat causes leaves to lose moisture, which can lead to wilting, drooping, and leaf scorch. If you notice any of these symptoms in your trees, it is important to take action immediately. Heat-stressed trees are far more susceptible to lasting harm and even death, so it is important to try to mitigate the damage as much as possible.

One way to do this is by watering your trees deeply and regularly during the summer months. Another way is to provide them with shade, either through natural means like other trees or shrubs or through man-made means like shading cloth.

Pests and Disease

In addition to heat stress, summer is also a prime time for pests and diseases. Insects like aphids, scale, and whiteflies can all wreak havoc on trees, and diseases like powdery mildew and bacterial leaf scorch are also common. To combat these problems, it is important to inspect your trees regularly and take action at the first sign of trouble. If you see any pests or diseases, contact a tree care specialist immediately. TreeNewal has a team of certified arborists who can help you diagnose and treat any tree problems quickly and effectively.

Check out our recent post, Powdery Mildew: The White Coating on Your Crepe Myrtle, to find out even more about one of the most common summer tree diseases.

Drought

Drought is another summer tree problem that can be deadly if not dealt with properly. During periods of drought, trees can suffer from dehydration, which can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, and even tree death. If you live in an area that is prone to drought, as Texas so often is in the summer, it is important to take steps to protect your trees. Watering deeply and regularly is the best way to combat drought, but you may also need to consider installing a drip irrigation system or mulching around your trees.

Soil Compaction

Be sure not to overcompensate for any drought conditions, though, as that can often beget further issues for trees, such as soil compaction. Soil compaction occurs when the soil around trees is too tightly compressed, which can make it difficult for roots to spread and absorb water and nutrients. This problem is often caused by heavy rain or irrigation during the summer months but can also simply be an effect of increased foot traffic. We North Texans do love our backyard summer barbecues and garden parties!

If you notice that your trees are suffering from soil compaction, aeration may be necessary. This process can involve poking holes in the compacted soil to allow air, water, and nutrients to reach the roots. Look for signs of soil compaction in your trees, such as:

• Slow growth
• Yellowing leaves
• Branch dieback
• Wood-boring insect infestations

For more solutions to overwatering, find all the info you need in our recent post: How to Rescue an Overwatered Tree: A Comprehensive Guide.

Overlooked Symptoms

Between kids and grandkids being out of school, travel plans, and all the beloved social activities, summer can be a very busy season. We certainly understand how easy it can be to overlook problems with your trees during these hectic months. But do not let summertime tree problems sneak up on you! Be sure to continue inspecting your trees regularly and take action at the first sign of trouble.

TreeNewal Can Help Your Heat-Stressed Trees

Summer can be tough on trees, but with the right care, they can weather the heat and come out healthy and strong. Heat stress, pests, and diseases are all common problems during summer, but they can be prevented with the help of a tree care specialist. TreeNewal has a team of certified arborists who can help you create a summer care plan that will keep your trees healthy and thriving all season long. Contact us today to learn more!

If you need advice or assistance with keeping your trees cool and comfortable this summer, get in touch with the ISA Certified arborists at TreeNewal and enjoy tailored tree care advice.

To learn more about Heat Isn’t the Only Problem for Your Trees in Summer, call our Argyle and Southlake-based teams

at (817) 592-6846 or send us a message.

We’re a little different than the average tree services company.

Learn more about TreeNewal’s ISA Certified Arborists!

Our Dallas/Fort Worth-based tree doctors can explain how sustainable tree care services add more value to your bottom line.

Healthy trees, healthy lives.