When midday sun and soaring
humidity combine, even established trees can flirt with dehydration. Probe six
inches into the soil with a screwdriver—if it feels hot or dusty, water is
overdue. Regular moisture checks help you target thirsty specimens before leaf
scorch appears, keeping canopies verdant and vigorous.
Prune with Purpose
Late spring through early
summer is prime time for light trimming. Remove only crossing, rubbing, or dead
branches—no more than 25% of the live crown—to reduce pest entry points and
wind damage. Make each cut just outside the branch collar, and leave any work
near power lines or large limbs to certified arborists.
Hydration Habits
Ditch short sprinkler
bursts in favor of a slow 30–40 minute drip at the tree’s drip line. Clay and
loam soils behave differently—adjust soak times accordingly, and focus morning
watering to minimize evaporation. For new transplants, build a 3‑foot berm around
the root zone and irrigate twice weekly for steady, deep-rooted establishment.
Mulch Mastery
A three‑inch layer of
organic mulch—shredded bark, leaf mold, or compost-enriched chips—serves as a
moisture-retaining blanket. Keep it three inches away from the trunk, extending
to the drip line. Come mid‑July, rake and fluff the ring to break up fungal
mats and encourage airflow to the roots.
Ongoing Vigilance
Walk your landscape weekly
to spot storm-split limbs, cankers, or sudden leaf drop. While small cuts and
minor issues can often be handled with careful pruning, complex removals and
structural failures are best managed by insured professionals.
Ready to master every
element of your summer tree care? Discover the full plan in our comprehensive
guide: Summer Tree Health: Pruning, Hydration,
and Mulch Strategies for Lasting Shade.
