Summer is here and the outdoors are calling! Our trees on the other hand are calling for a special kind of care. Dry heat and pests can all take a toll on the health of your trees, so let us go through some helpful tips for you to follow over the next few months.
Keep them watered!
One of the most important things you can do for your trees in the summer is to water them deeply and regularly. Trees need about an inch of water per week, but they may need more during periods of extreme heat or drought. Water your trees slowly and deeply, so that the water has a chance to soak into the ground. Avoid watering the leaves of your trees, as this can encourage fungal diseases.
Mulching for moisture
Mulching is another great way to help your trees stay healthy in the summer. Mulch helps to retain moisture in the soil and keep the roots cool. It also helps to suppress weeds, which compete with trees for water and nutrients. Apply a 5-8cm layer of mulch around your trees but be careful not to pile the mulch up against the trunk of the tree, as this can suffocate the roots.
Fertilize your trees
Fertilizing your trees in the summer can help them to stay healthy and vigorous. However, it is important to fertilize correctly, as too much fertilizer can damage trees. Apply a balanced fertilizer to your trees according to the package directions. Be sure to water your trees well before and after fertilizing.
Keep your soil conditioned
Adding soil conditioner to the soil around your trees can help to improve drainage and aeration. This can be especially beneficial for trees that are planted in heavy clay soils. Soil conditioner can also help to increase the water-holding capacity of the soil, which can help to reduce the need for watering.
More Tips to help your trees thrive in the hotter months
In addition to watering, mulching, fertilizing, and adding soil conditioner, there are a few other things you can do to help your trees stay healthy in the summer.
- Inspect your trees regularly for pests and diseases.
- Prune your trees regularly to remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Pruning can also help to improve air circulation and sunlight penetration, which can benefit tree health. Just the thing we can help you with of course
- Avoid planting trees too close to buildings or other structures. Trees need space to grow and spread their roots.
During periods of extreme heat, here are a few additional tips:
- Water your trees more often. Trees may need to be watered daily during periods of extreme heat.
- Mulch your trees with a thick layer of organic matter, such as wood chips or bark. This will help to keep the roots cool and moist.
- Avoid pruning your trees during periods of extreme heat. Pruning can stress trees and make them more susceptible to damage.
- If possible, shade your trees during the hottest part of the day. You can do this by planting shade trees or using shade cloth.
By following these tips, you can help your trees survive and thrive during even the hottest summers.
