With the summer right around the corner, you can enjoy the beauty and shade of trees as they flourish in the warm temperatures. However, this is also when you need to take particular steps for tree care. By keeping them healthy this time of year, you’ll set them up for success throughout the dormant seasons.

How to Maintain Your Trees This Summer 

1. Keep Them Moist 

Warm weather can cause dryness, so no tree care system is complete without irrigation.

Once a week, use a hose to drench the area surrounding your trees—particularly newly planted ones—in about an inch of water. For the best results, water as close to the trunk as possible so the roots can transfer it to the rest of the tree. To prevent root rot, it’s safer to water thoroughly once a week than to do so lightly throughout the week.

2. Supply Nutrition 

To grow strong and fight pests and disease, trees need various nutrients, including nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, and manganese.

Urban and suburban areas like Rochester don’t naturally offer nutrient-rich soil, so invest in some slow-release fertilizer. Like with water, apply the product close to the roots and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

3. Use Mulch 

Many of the previous steps are further supported by mulch.

Often made from grass, leaves, bark, woodchips, sawdust, straw, and hay, mulch keeps the soil moist, cool, and free of weeds. It also helps prevent erosion, keeping fertilizers in place. Spread it around the base of each tree. 

4. Secure Weak Growth

Thunderstorms are common during summertime, and young, sick, or recently recovered trees can sustain damage from strong winds.

Tree services use braces and cables to secure weak branches and trunks. This will protect the integrity of your trees and prevent property damage.

5. Prune as Necessary 

In general, tree trimming and pruning are best done in the winter because there are no leaves in the way and the trees have access to plenty of moisture.

However, you may still require trimming and pruning in the summer if you notice any branches with signs of disease or decay. Removing sections that have yellowed leaves or weak branches keeps diseases from spreading. 

 
If you need tree trimming, contact Brongo’s Tree Service in Rochester, NY. They’re well-versed in summertime maintenance for dry, sick, infested, or storm-damaged trees. Offering reliable and efficient tree care services, they’re committed to ongoing education and know the best practices for different species. Call (585) 426-8733 to discuss your needs, or visit them online to learn more about pruning.