August is here, and with the warm weather comes the opportunity to enjoy the rest of the summer outdoors. While the trees in your yard provide essential shade and beauty, they also require special attention during the hotter months. Higher temperatures and increased pest activity can present unique challenges to maintaining healthy trees. At Westcoast Tree Care, we offer expert advice and services to help you care for your trees. That’s why we’d like to provide you with the following top summer tree care tips to keep your trees healthy and thriving.
Proper Watering Techniques
Ensuring your trees are adequately hydrated is crucial during the summer months. With this in mind, deep watering is key to maintaining tree health as shallow watering only wets the surface, leaving the roots dry and stressed. That’s why it’s important to water deeply but less frequently. This approach allows the water to reach the root zone, helping your trees withstand the higher temperatures and dry conditions in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.
To achieve deep watering, use a soaker hose or a drip irrigation system. These methods distribute water evenly and efficiently. Furthermore, it’s best to water early in the morning or late evening to minimize evaporation and ensure the water penetrates deeply. Lastly, aim to moisten the soil to a depth of at least 12 inches. This practice supports tree health and conserves water by reducing runoff and evaporation.
The Importance of Mulching
Mulching is an effective way to retain soil moisture and regulate soil temperature. By applying a layer of mulch around your trees, you’ll help keep the soil moist, which is particularly important during the summer. Organic mulch, such as wood chips or bark, is ideal because it breaks down over time, adding nutrients to the soil.
When applying mulch, spread it in a two-to-four-inch layer around the tree’s base, but keep it away from the trunk to prevent rot. This practice reduces evaporation, protects the roots from extreme temperatures, and helps control weeds. Keep in mind that it’s important to replenish the mulch each year to maintain its benefits.
Pruning & Trimming
Summer is a good time for light pruning to remove dead or diseased branches. This promotes healthy growth, improves air circulation, and reduces the risk of disease. However, it’s important to approach pruning with care. Removing too many branches can stress the tree and compromise its health.
For significant pruning tasks, it’s best to hire the certified arborists at Westcoast Tree Care. Our professionals have the expertise to prune trees without causing damage and can handle the job safely and effectively. We are also trained to perform precise and strategic pruning to enhance the health and appearance of your trees.
Protecting Against Pests
Pests are more active during the summer, and they can cause significant damage to your trees if not managed properly. That’s why it’s essential to inspect your trees regularly for any signs of infestation. Early detection allows for prompt treatment and prevents pests from spreading.
Common pests to watch for include aphids, borers, and spider mites. Aphids leave a sticky residue on leaves, borers create small holes in the bark, and spider mites produce fine webbing on the leaves. For minor pest issues, natural solutions like neem oil can be effective. However, severe infestations often require professional intervention to ensure the health of your trees.
Knowing When to Call a Professional
While some tree care tasks can be handled by homeowners, others require the expertise of a certified arborist. Significant structural issues, disease management, and large-scale pruning are best left to professionals. At Westcoast Tree Care, we offer comprehensive tree care in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, including tree removal, trimming, pruning, and emergency services.
Hiring a professional ensures that your trees receive the best care and that any potential risks are managed effectively. Our team is equipped with the knowledge and tools to handle all aspects of tree care, providing you with peace of mind and beautiful, healthy trees.
Tree Care in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
Taking care of your trees during the summer is essential for maintaining their health and longevity. Proper watering, mulching, pruning, pest management, and knowing when to call a professional are all crucial components of effective tree care. At Westcoast Tree Care, we are committed to helping you maintain the beauty and health of your trees. If you need assistance with your trees, contact us by filling out our online form or call 1.800.767.8733 for a no-cost, no-obligation quote. We’re here to help you with all your tree care needs, ensuring your trees remain healthy and beautiful year-round.