Tree Care Tips For A Scorching Summer

When the summer heat comes and lingers for weeks on end, you're not the only one who feels the effects. It's common for deciduous trees to also struggle in extreme summer heat. However, there are some tree care tips you can implement in order to take better care of your trees at this time.

Deep water your trees once a week.

Even when it is scorching hot outside, you don't need to water your trees daily. It takes so much water to penetrate deep enough into the soil for the trees to reach the water that once the water is down there, it does not evaporate quickly. So rather than watering for 20 or 30 minutes a day, dedicate one day a week to deep watering your tree. Let the hose soak the area around the tree for 2 or 3 hours. Remember to water at the dripline, which is the circle on the ground directly under the tree's outer branches, rather than right against the trunk. You can leave the hose at one part of the dripline for 30 minutes and then move it every half hour.

Keep weeds trimmed back.

When the weather gets hot, weeds tend to shoot up since they are hardy and can withstand the challenging weather. But weed growth around your tree can cause a few problems. For one, the weeds use up water and nutrients that your tree could otherwise be using. Weeds also become a harboring point for insects and even fungi that may take advantage of your tree's weakened state and prey on it. Keep the weeds cut down, and make sure you're careful when trimming right next to the trunk so you don't cause any nicks or scrapes.

Wait to prune or trim.

If you notice any damaged, rubbing, or interfering branches on your tree, do not trim them away during the heatwave. Wait it out. Trimming can be a little traumatic for a tree, even when it is necessary, and your tree will be better equipped to deal with the wounds when the weather is a little milder. If you had a tree trimming appointment scheduled during this time, reschedule for after the heatwave has passed.

Stubborn summer heat can be tough on your trees. However, if you follow the tips above, you can minimize the damage and help your trees thrive in spite of the weather.

For more information, contact a local tree care service.

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