Understanding the Impact of Dallas Weather on Your Trees

Weather impacts plants, from extreme heat to intense cold, so knowing how weather affects trees can help property owners find ways to minimize their impact. This can help keep trees healthy and happy for years to come. That’s why we at TreeNewal prepared this helpful guide to discuss how Dallas weather can affect trees. Keep on reading to learn about common Dallas weather patterns and how to minimize their effect.

Impact of Dallas Weather on Trees

Image via Unsplash by Kyle Glenn

Dallas, Texas, is subject to a variety of weather patterns throughout the year, resulting in several stressful conditions for trees. North Texas experiences extreme heat, drought, torrential rain, flooding, and cold winter temperatures that can lead to snow and ice. Knowing how each of these conditions affects trees can help property owners plan to help their trees thrive, regardless of the conditions.

Extreme Heat

During the summer months, Dallas may experience prolonged periods of high temperatures of 90 to 100 degrees. This means faster evaporation, resulting in wilting leaves and sometimes trees dropping their leaves and going into summer dormancy. Some trees may prematurely blossom and drop their fruit before they’re ready, which can mean that property owners don’t get to enjoy those fruits during peak season. Additionally, trees exposed to prolonged heat stress can be vulnerable to pests and disease.

Drought Conditions

In addition to extreme heat, Dallas can endure drought, which is a period of persistent dry weather that can last for a few months or longer. This means less water for trees, which can prevent them from thriving, especially if they’re under three years old. Regular watering helps trees stay healthy, grow at consistent rates, and resist disease or pest infestation. Installing drip irrigation lines, setting up a sprinkler system, or creating a manual watering schedule can ensure that trees get the life-giving water they need during drought conditions.

Bitter Temperatures

Winter and colder temperatures also pose risks for trees. Newer trees are at greater risk during the winter months because they have less growth to protect their cells from freezing. Plant cells that freeze completely can prevent water and nutrients from getting to the rest of the tree and stymie growth or result in the tree dying. Wrapping tree trunks during the winter months can save them from freezing and dying.

Flooding

Flooding can also damage trees, as soil and roots are unable to aerate and breathe during flood conditions. This can also affect soil health after flooding recedes and increase the likelihood of root rot and other diseases. Aerating the soil and having a soil test done after flooding can help improve the health of trees.

Perfect weather conditions for trees don’t happen year-round, and understanding how different conditions impact trees in Dallas can help property owners find ways to combat them and ensure their trees thrive. If property owners need assistance in taking care of their trees during any of the seasons, contact us at TreeNewal and our team of ISA Certified arborists will help keep their trees happy and healthy.