Common Issues That May Impact Your Trees This Summer

Summer is here, and you might be wondering about the usual care and maintenance your trees will need to make it through the season. Your trees are an integral part of your property’s landscape, and it’s important to note that there are issues that can impact them, especially during this season. Identifying and addressing these problems early on can go a long way in preserving the health and beauty of your trees.

In this post, we’ll discuss some common issues that may impact your trees this summer, and what you can do to ensure they stay healthy and strong.

Water-related issues

Summer can be harsh on trees because of the dry and hot weather conditions. This can lead to water-related issues, such as drought, flooding, or poor drainage.

Drought can cause tree leaves to dry out and turn brown. This is often accompanied by branch dieback, a condition that causes some parts of the tree to die. To ensure that your trees stay hydrated, water them deeply and regularly during the summer months. You can also add organic mulch, such as compost or wood chips, around the base of your trees to help retain moisture.

On the other hand, heavy rainfall can cause flooding or poor drainage around the trees. Excessive water can lead to root rot, which deprives the tree of vital nutrients, leading to leaf yellowing and branch dieback. If you notice excess water around your trees, you can improve drainage by undercutting the soil around the base of the tree and filling the gap with sand and gravel.

Pest and insect issues

Summer is the breeding season for many pests and insects, which can impact your trees by feeding on the leaves, bark or stem. This can lead to stunted growth, defoliation, and ultimately a weakened tree.

The most common pests that trees face during the summer include aphids, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled by using organic sprays and insecticides, or by introducing other insects that are natural predators of the pests.

Another common problem is the emergence of tent caterpillars and webworms. These pests create unsightly nests on tree branches and can cause significant damage. You can control these pests by manually removing the nests, or by using organic pest control methods.

Fungal issues

Fungal infections are common in trees during the summer months, especially when the weather is humid. These infections can lead to discoloration, leaf defoliation, and in severe cases, death of the tree.

One of the most common fungal infections is powdery mildew. This disease causes a white, powdery substance to form on leaves and stems. This can be treated by pruning the infected branches to improve aeration and applying organic fungicides.

Another common fungal infection is root rot. This is a disease that affects the roots of the tree, causing them to decay. This can be caused by over-watering or poor soil drainage. You can prevent the disease by ensuring proper watering and improving soil drainage.

Nutrient deficiencies

Nutrient deficiencies can impact tree growth and health during the summer months. This can occur due to poor soil conditions, inadequate fertilization, or pest infestations.

One of the most common nutrient deficiencies is iron chlorosis. This is a condition that causes leaves to turn yellow due to a lack of iron. To correct this, you can apply iron chelate to the tree’s root zone.

Another common nutrient deficiency is nitrogen deficiency. This can cause stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and thinning foliage. To resolve this, you can apply nitrogen-rich fertilizers or organic compost around the base of the tree.

Conclusion

Taking care of your trees during the summer months can be a daunting task, but with the right care, you can keep them healthy and strong. It’s important to identify the issues that may impact your trees and address them early on to avoid any severe damage.

Some of these issues include water-related problems like drought, flooding, or poor drainage. Pest and insect problems like aphids, spider mites, or scale insects can also impact tree health, as well as fungal infections like powdery mildew and root rot. Nutrient deficiencies, such as iron chlorosis and nitrogen deficiencies, should also be addressed as soon as possible.

By paying close attention to your trees and providing them with proper care, you can ensure that they stay healthy and beautiful all summer long. And if you notice anything with your trees that feels like an emergency, be sure to contact us as soon as possible!