Summer Tree Stress: Signs Your Trees Are Struggling in the Heat

As temperatures climb and rainfall becomes less frequent, trees can begin to show signs of stress. Just like people, trees suffer in extreme heat. If not addressed early, the damage can last for years. Spotting heat-related stress early and taking action can make all the difference in keeping your trees healthy.

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Common Signs of Heat and Drought Stress in Trees

During hot, dry weather, trees often show visible signs of stress. Watch for these red flags:

• Wilting or curling leaves
• Excessive dead wood
• Premature leaf drop
• Thinning canopy
• Limb failures

Additionally, symptoms such as these make trees more vulnerable to pests, disease, and long-term decline.

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How to Water Trees in Summer: Best Practices

One of the most effective ways to protect your trees in the heat is proper watering. Here’s how to do it right:

• Deep root watering: Regulate the water flow by using a soaker hose or drip irrigation.
• Timing matters: Water early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation.
• Focus on the drip line: Water the area beneath the outer edge of the canopy where roots absorb the most moisture.
• Avoid overwatering: Only water your trees as needed. Excessive irrigation can induce stress in trees as well

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Protect Roots with Mulch.

Mulch is more than just a finishing touch to your landscape - it offers numerous benefits to your trees

• Helps retain soil moisture
• Keeps soil temperatures cooler
• Reduces weed competition
• The decomposition of organic mulch improves the soil makeup and is a nutrient source for trees

Apply 2-4 inches of mulch around the base, but leave space around the trunk to prevent moisture buildup and decay to the root flare.

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Schedule a Tree Health Evaluation Today

Don’t let the summer heat take a toll on your trees. One of our Certified Arborists can assess your tree's condition, establish a tree care management plan and implement our recommendations.  

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In the dog days of summer, life is especially better with trees and as always trees are better with us. By contacting us today, you will have made the first step in ensuring that your trees receive the support they need to weather the summer season.

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