Trees are a great addition to any landscape. They offer an eye-drawing element, a source of shade, and a noise barrier (to some extent). While this is true, trees can only provide these benefits if you are caring for summer trees properly.
The summer can be rough on some trees. Now is the time to learn how to ensure your trees remain healthy and stable throughout the hotter months of the year. Keep reading to learn more.
Add Mulch Around Your Tree
Most people add mulch around their trees during the spring. However, if you did not do this, it is not too late. Mulching your trees is important because it helps to conserve soil moisture, stabilize soil temperatures, and reduce weed competition.
When adding mulch, add three to four inches of a shredded hardwood blend. Hardwood lumber is not only the best for live edge slabs and hardwood tables and furniture, but it also makes for the best landscaping mulch. Create a donut shape around the tree’s base. Make sure you don’t put mulch against the trunk, as this can result in insect problems and disease, leading to the need for extensive tree trimming or tree removal services.
Water Considerations
Most trees can tolerate not having enough water for a while. However, there will be adverse effects. Tree species common to North Americans need about an inch of water each week. This water should be added over their root zone when the leaves are out.
If it is exceptionally dry outside, it is a good idea to water your trees. This will make a huge difference in how healthy they are and help the tree deal with other sources of stress, such as disease, insects, and bad weather. If you want to avoid having to drag the hose from tree to tree, you can use water bags or a drip irrigation system. This will ensure the water is added to the tree’s root system slowly and deeply.
Know the Signs of Heat Stress
Proper shading and cooling are an essential part of summer tree care. Be sure to give younger trees shade to protect them from any excess heat and to avoid cases of heat stress. Also, watch for signs of heat stress on especially hot days.
Some of the most common signs of heat stress include yellowing leaves, wilting leaves, or drooping. If signs of heat stress are seen, make sure to give the tree more water to help it recover. Be sure to keep the signs of a problem in mind so that you know when to act and help your tree remain healthy.
Tree Pruning
While most pruning should be done while the tree is dormant (which is not in the summer), there are some situations when this is needed. For example, if there are damaged, dead, or diseased branches on the tree, they should be pruned. This will improve the health of the tree and ensure it is not a hazard to people or things nearby. You should hire a professional to handle the tree pruning process, which will ensure it is done properly.
As you can see, keeping your trees healthy during the summer months isn’t hard; however, it is something that requires your time and effort. Keep this in mind to protect your tree’s health this summer.
If you need local, professional tree care services in Kansas City, please be sure to call or contact your friends at Omar Tree Service.
