Summer is one of the most vibrant seasons for trees, but it can also be one of the most stressful. Prolonged heat, dry conditions, and insect activity can take a toll on even the healthiest trees. At Five Star Tree Services, we want your trees to remain strong, healthy, and beautiful all summer long. Whether you have mature shade trees or newly planted saplings, proper care during the warmer months is essential to protect your investment and maintain the health of your landscape.
To help you do just that, we’ve put together a list of essential summer tree care tips that can make a big difference in how your trees perform through the heat and beyond.
Watering Wisely
One of the most critical aspects of summer tree care is consistent, deep watering. Trees need more water during the hot months, but it’s important to water correctly to avoid shallow root growth or fungal issues. Unlike grass or flowers, trees require infrequent but deep watering to encourage roots to grow deep into the soil.
Aim to water early in the morning or later in the evening when the sun is less intense. This reduces evaporation and allows the soil to absorb more moisture. Young trees should be watered more often—about once or twice a week—while established trees can often get by with watering every 10 to 14 days during dry spells.
Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. Always check soil moisture by feeling a few inches below the surface. If it feels dry, it’s time to water.
Mulching for Moisture Retention
Adding mulch around the base of your trees helps lock in moisture, reduce soil temperature, and suppress weed growth. Organic mulch such as wood chips or bark is ideal and also enriches the soil as it breaks down.
When applying mulch, spread it in a wide circle about 2 to 4 inches deep around the base of the tree, but avoid piling it directly against the trunk. This “volcano mulching” can trap moisture against the bark and invite pests and disease.
Proper mulching not only keeps roots cool and moist but also gives your landscape a tidy, well-maintained look.
Pruning with Care
Summer isn’t the best season for heavy tree pruning, especially for large limbs or structural work, but light maintenance pruning can be beneficial. Removing dead, broken, or diseased branches reduces the risk of falling limbs during storms and improves airflow through the canopy.
It’s also a good time to inspect your trees for signs of stress or disease, such as yellowing leaves, oozing sap, or visible cracks in the trunk. If you notice anything unusual, our certified arborists can assess the situation and recommend the best course of action.
Remember, improper pruning can weaken a tree or leave it vulnerable to pests, so it’s best to consult professionals like our team at Five Star Tree Services if you’re unsure.
Monitoring for Insects and Disease
Warm weather can increase the activity of harmful pests like aphids, borers, and caterpillars. These insects can damage leaves, bark, and even the tree’s internal systems. Watch for signs such as chewed foliage, sticky residue on leaves, or holes in the bark.
Fungal infections also thrive in the heat, especially when trees are stressed by drought or poor soil conditions. If you see discoloured leaves, powdery mildew, or black spots, act quickly to minimize damage.
Regular inspections by a tree care expert can catch these problems early before they become serious. Integrated pest management strategies are often the most effective way to control infestations while preserving beneficial insects.
Supporting Young and Newly Planted Trees
Younger trees are particularly vulnerable in the summer because their root systems aren’t fully developed. In addition to regular watering, consider staking young trees to prevent them from bending or snapping in high winds.
Keep a close eye on the mulch, and avoid fertilizing newly planted trees in mid-summer unless recommended by a professional. Over-fertilizing during hot weather can burn the roots or stimulate excessive growth that the tree can’t support.
Let Five Star Tree Services Help You This Summer
Caring for trees during the summer doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right practices and a bit of attention, your trees can remain healthy and resilient throughout the hottest months of the year. Whether you need help with pruning, pest management, or a seasonal health checkup, our experts are here to help.
We proudly serve homeowners and commercial property owners across the Greater Toronto Area with trusted, certified arborist services. If you have concerns about a specific tree or want to schedule a consultation, contact us today at (416) 990-3355 or visit our tree care services page.
Your trees are a vital part of your landscape—let’s keep them thriving all summer long.