Keeping Your Trees Thriving This Summer: Hot Weather Tree Care in the UK
The sun is shining, the barbecues are sizzling, and summer is finally here! But while we're enjoying the warm weather, our trees can sometimes struggle with the heat, especially in the UK where we're not always accustomed to prolonged periods of high temperatures and dry spells. As your local tree surgery experts, we want to help you keep your trees healthy and happy throughout the summer months.
Why is Summer Tree Care Important?
● Water Stress: High temperatures lead to increased evaporation, causing trees to lose water faster than they can absorb it. This can lead to wilting, leaf drop, and even tree death in severe cases.
● Sunburn: Just like us, trees can suffer from sunburn. This can damage the bark and leaves, making them more susceptible to disease and pests.
● Soil Compaction: Dry, hard soil makes it difficult for roots to absorb water and nutrients.
● Increased Pest and Disease Activity: Hot, dry conditions can create ideal breeding grounds for certain pests and diseases.
Our Top Tips for Summer Tree Care:
Water Deeply and Infrequently:
○ Avoid shallow, frequent watering, which encourages shallow root growth.
○ Water deeply and thoroughly, allowing the water to penetrate deep into the soil.
○ Focus on watering the area beneath the tree's canopy, where the majority of the roots are located.
○ Water early in the morning or late in the evening to minimise evaporation.
○ Younger trees will require more frequent watering than mature trees.
Mulch, Mulch, Mulch!
○ Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of your trees.
○ Mulch helps to retain soil moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.
○ Keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.
○ Woodchip is an excellent choice.
Check for Signs of Stress:
○ Look for wilting leaves, yellowing or browning foliage, and premature leaf drop.
○ Inspect the bark for signs of sunburn or cracking.
○ Be vigilant for signs of pests or diseases.
Avoid Pruning During Heatwaves:
○ Pruning can stress trees, especially during hot weather.
○ If possible, delay pruning until cooler weather arrives.
○ If you have to prune, only remove dead or diseased branches.
Protect Young Trees:
○ Young trees are particularly vulnerable to heat stress.
○ Consider using shade cloth or other protective measures to shield them from direct sunlight.
○ Ensure they receive adequate watering.
Soil Aeration:
○ If your soil is compacted, gently aerating it can help improve water and nutrient absorption.
○ Be careful not to damage the roots.
Consult a Professional:
○ If you're concerned about the health of your trees, don't hesitate to contact a qualified tree surgeon.
○ We can assess your trees, identify any potential problems, and provide expert advice on how to keep them healthy.
We're Here to Help!
At Treefellas, we're passionate about tree care. We understand the unique challenges that summer weather can pose to trees, and we're here to provide expert advice and services to help you keep your trees thriving.
Don't let the summer heat take its toll on your trees. Contact us today for a consultation or to schedule a tree care service on 0114 281 5150 or email us at [email protected].