Summer Tree Care Tips from the Experts

Summer Tree Care Tips from Woodeez Tree Service

Summer can be tough on your trees, as they face heat, drought, pests, diseases, and storms. To keep your trees healthy and safe during this season, you need to follow some preventive measures and best practices. Here are some summer tree care tips from Woodeez Tree Service, your trusted tree care provider in Spencerport, NY.

Watering

Watering is essential for your trees, especially during dry spells. Water deeply and infrequently, early in the morning or late in the evening, using a soaker hose or a drip irrigation system. Avoid watering the leaves or the trunk, and check the soil moisture regularly. Aim for about an inch of water per week, depending on the soil type and weather conditions.

Mulching

Mulching is another way to help your trees retain moisture and prevent weeds. Mulch is a layer of organic material, such as wood chips, bark, or leaves, that covers the soil around the base of the tree. Mulch can also improve the soil quality, regulate the temperature, and protect the roots from damage. Apply a 2 to 4 inch layer of mulch around the tree, leaving a few inches of space between the mulch and the trunk. Extend the mulch ring to the drip line of the tree, and replenish the mulch as needed.

Pruning

Pruning is the process of removing dead, diseased, damaged, or unwanted branches from your tree. Pruning can improve the health, structure, appearance, and safety of your tree. However, pruning should be done with care and skill, as improper pruning can cause more harm than good. Prune in late winter or early spring, when most trees are dormant and have less sap flow. Use sharp and clean tools, and make clean cuts at a 45-degree angle just outside the branch collar. Follow the 1/3 rule: never remove more than 1/3 of a branch or a tree’s canopy at one time.

Pest and Disease Control

Pests and diseases can affect any tree, but they are more likely to attack stressed or weakened trees. Some common pests and diseases that affect trees in summer are aphids, scale insects, spider mites, Japanese beetles, powdery mildew, and anthracnose. To prevent or treat pests and diseases, you can:

  • Monitor your trees regularly for signs of infestation or infection.
  • Use cultural practices to reduce stress and improve resistance.
  • Use mechanical methods to remove or reduce pests.
  • Use biological methods to control pests.
  • Use chemical methods to control pests or diseases.
  • Always follow the label instructions and safety precautions when using any pesticide.

Storm Damage Prevention

Storms can cause severe damage to your trees, especially if they are weak, diseased, or poorly pruned. Strong winds, heavy rain, lightning, hail, or snow can break branches, split trunks, uproot trees, or damage property. To prevent or minimize storm damage, you can:

  • Inspect your trees before and after each storm season.
  • Prune your trees regularly to remove hazardous branches and improve their structure and wind resistance.
  • Brace or cable your trees if they have weak crotches, co-dominant stems, or splits.
  • Remove your trees if they are dead, dying, diseased, or damaged beyond repair.

Conclusion

Summer is a wonderful time to enjoy your trees, but it also comes with some challenges and risks. By following these tips from Woodeez Tree Service, you can keep your trees healthy and beautiful throughout the season. If you need any help with watering, mulching, pruning, pest and disease control, storm damage prevention, or any other tree care service in Spencerport, NY, don’t hesitate to contact us today. We have the experience and expertise to handle any tree care project with professionalism and quality.