It’s difficult to imagine it being any hotter outside. A month ago, we were collectively complaining about all the rain and praying to the Gods that we could finally get a little peak of sunshine, and now here we are — practically on the surface of the sun. Heat warnings are an everyday thing right now, and while you are likely focused on keeping yourself and loved ones cool and comfortable, don’t forget about your big, beautiful trees outside. Trust us when we say your trees are feeling the heat, too.
It’s hard to imagine our trees being hurt by this searing Texas heat. After all, they typically stand so tall and proud. But the reality is that heat stress in trees is real — even when you can’t see it. In fact, the Texas Trees Foundation has an entire article about it.
Help Your Trees Survive the Summer Heat
The Texas Trees Foundation points out that while trees are good at protecting themselves and conserving energy during droughts, it’s a much different story when drought is combined with excessive heat, like what we are experiencing right now.
To the untrained eye, your trees may look just fine. Don’t fall for it, though. The symptoms of heat stress in trees are there and include:
- Leaf wilting
- Scorched leaf edges
- Dead leaves or leaves falling off
- Little to no new growth
- Premature blossoms and/or fruit drop
You’re probably asking yourself, “What can I do when excessive heat hurts my trees? Great question. The first reaction is to water, and this is true. But the Texas Trees Foundation prefers that you follow these tips to combat heat stress in trees.
- Water deeply but infrequently — A weekly, deep soak is much better than just a little water every day. But when watering, remember to follow any water restrictions in your area due to lingering drought or heat. Allow the soil to drain between waterings.
- Be aware that young and old trees require different watering needs — Newly transplanted or younger trees require more water to become established. Approximately 5 to 15 gallons of water each week is good between April and October.
- Water tree roots — Apply water to the soil (as opposed to overhead irrigation). This way, you don’t lose any water to evaporation.
- Refresh the mulch over your tree’s root zone — If there is no mulch, a 2- to 3-inch layer can help insulate the roots from heat and minimize moisture loss in the soil. Keep mulch away from the tree trunk, as mulch against the bark can lead to fungal problems.
- If you have an automatic irrigation system — Check to see how much water is being put out and where it is going. The system may need to be adjusted so it does not put out too much or too little water in one area. Sprinkler heads should also not be hitting trees directly with water.
Another helpful tip is to ensure your trees are properly maintained year-round. Overgrown and unkempt trees that haven’t been pruned or trimmed in a long time struggle with temperature shifts and can’t withstand everything Mother Nature throws at them. Don’t get stuck tackling tree service needs alone or relying on a company that can’t handle your project’s unique needs in a pinch. Certified arborists must stay up-to-date on the latest techniques and requirements in arboriculture.
Trees that aren’t properly pruned, trimmed, or maintained can experience shorter lifespans and cause future property damage.
Call Clean Edge Tree Service & Removal Today!
We know you have options regarding your tree service and removal needs. Clean Edge Tree Service & Removal in Denton, TX, is family-owned and operated and has served Denton and surrounding areas since 2016. More importantly, we have the equipment, experience, and technical know-how to safely and efficiently handle any tree and residential or commercial scenario — from a downed tree in the middle of a storm to trimming a few branches, stump grinding, and removing trees that tower 83 feet in the air.
There isn’t a tree in Denton that we can’t handle. Call Clean Edge Tree Service & Removal today!
