Summer is when trees are at their lushest and knowing how to care for them will ensure they continue to add beauty to your property. Although summer isn’t the peak season for all types of tree care, there are plenty of tasks you can do by yourself and with the help of a tree services professional to keep them in good condition. Here’s what you should do during the summer.

Tree Care Essentials for Summer

1. Water Correctly

Instead of shallow watering every day, it’s best to give your trees deep, less frequent watering to encourage root growth. This also means the trees won’t become entirely dependent on the water you provide. 

Trees that are less than two years old need watering two or three times a week. Older trees need watering during dry spells. To test if a tree needs water, try to push a screwdriver at least six inches into the ground through soft, moist soil. If you reach dry, harder soil before six inches, water your tree.

2. Use Mulch

Mulch is a loose matter used to cover soil. It’s often composed of organic materials like decaying leaves, straw, or compost. Covering the soil helps to retain moisture that can be used by trees. It also protects the roots from intense sun. 

Add mulch in a circle around tree trunks at a depth of three or four inches. However, don’t pile the material up directly against the trunk as this encourages pests and disease, and may retain too much moisture. Extend the circle up to five feet out from the tree.

3. Prune Carefully

Most people tend to prune from late fall to early spring when trees are dormant. This is generally the best thing to do, but it’s sometimes necessary to prune in summer. If you have diseased parts on your tree, they need to be removed quickly, so they don’t infect surrounding areas.

Dead branches should be pruned because there is a danger they could fall and cause damage. A tree services expert should do the pruning, as they can spot exactly which parts to take, and they will sterilize the equipment so as not to spread disease.

4. Inspect for Pests

It’s natural for insects to be around your trees, and most won’t cause damage. However, certain pests like Japanese beetles, spider mites, aphids, and scales are harmful. Signs of an infestation include bored holes, the presence of sap, dead branches, and withered or yellow leaves. If you suspect an infestation, call a tree care professional to identify the exact problem.

If you need a tree services expert to keep your trees healthy in summer and beyond, contact Russell's Tree Care Services Inc. in Demotte, IN. Their arborists are certified by the International Society of Arboriculture, and they have served customers since 1984. Services include tree removal and trimming, along with stump grinding and mulch replacement. Call (219) 987-4378 for a free estimate or visit their website for more information.