How to Save Trees from Heat Stress
As June brings longer days and rising temperatures, your trees face a serious challenge: heat stress. Prolonged exposure to hot, dry conditions can weaken even mature trees—making them more vulnerable to pests, disease, and long-term damage. Young or newly planted trees are especially at risk. The good news? With a few proactive steps, you can help your trees stay healthy and resilient all summer long.
1. Water Deeply—and Less Often
One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is watering too frequently but too shallowly. Trees need deep, infrequent watering that encourages roots to grow downward, where the soil stays cooler and holds more moisture. Water once or twice a week, soaking the root zone slowly and thoroughly. Early morning is best, as it reduces evaporation and gives trees time to absorb moisture before the heat of the day sets in.
2. Mulch for Moisture and Temperature Control
Mulch is one of your tree’s best defenses against summer stress. Apply a 2–4 inch layer of organic mulch (like wood chips or shredded bark) around the base of your tree—but keep it a few inches away from the trunk. This helps retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and reduce competition from weeds. Plus, it gives your landscape a neat, finished look.
3. Know the Signs of Stress
Keep an eye out for warning signs like wilting, leaf scorch (browning at the edges), curling leaves, or premature leaf drop. These are often indicators that your tree isn’t getting enough water or is suffering from heat damage. Acting early can make a big difference in recovery.
4. Avoid Stressful Activities
Try to avoid heavy pruning or fertilizing during the summer months. Both can stimulate new growth that’s more sensitive to heat. Save major pruning for late fall or winter when the tree is dormant. If your trees need to be cut back from structures or have deadwood in them, contact us today to have one of our certified arborists come out and provide you with an estimate.
5. Protect Young and Vulnerable Trees
If you’ve recently planted a tree, consider providing temporary shade cloth or tree wraps to protect tender bark from sunscald. Newly planted trees also need more frequent watering, since their roots are still establishing.
A little attention now can save you from big problems later. Healthy trees are not only more beautiful but more storm- and drought-resilient all year long.