Summer is almost here, which means now is the perfect time to get out to your yard and check up on your trees. While the trees on your property are certainly enjoying the spring weather and beginning to grow their leaves, the summer months can be some of the toughest for trees.
From tree pruning methods to mulching, there are many things you can do to help you keep your trees in great shape this season. Here are a few key ways you can make sure your trees will enjoy this summer just as much as you will.
During the hot summer months, some trees on your property might need more water than others. It may be a good idea to make a watering schedule. This will help to make sure each tree is receiving the right amount of water and adequate nutrients.
To help you figure out how much to water each tree, water five gallons for every inch in trunk diameter. But remember to water slowly rather than all at once. Watering regularly, possibly with a sprinkler system, between May and October will help to reduce the risk of tree mortality.
Make sure not to saturate the trunk with water, keep the water away from the trunk by approx 2-3″. The roots in the ground are what take up the water, not the trunk or leaves! You can use a hose and turn the water on very low, just dribbling out, put on each side of the trunk (2-3″ away) for about 30 minutes on each side.
Mulching is one of the best ways to protect your trees during the summer months with the added bonus of adding visual appeal to your yard. To mulch your trees properly, you’ll want to surround each tree base with between one to three inches of mulch. This helps to conserve the moisture in the soil around the tree. It’ll also help to keep the soil cool for your tree’s roots so they’re not cooking in the summer sun.
An added bonus is that mulch helps to reduce the risk of moisture being stolen by surrounding weeds. Just be careful that you don’t place the mulch too close to the tree. You want to stay two to three inches away from the trunk.
Mulching too close to the trunk of the tree will cause rotting, which can be dangerous. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are 200 tree-related fatal injuries every year. That said, be smart about mulching and keep your trees happy and healthy.
There are different tree pruning methods out there, but it’s typically best to prune your trees during the dormant season. If you handle pruning and tree trimming on your own, you could end up over-pruning your trees and doing more harm than good. A professional tree trimming service can help you ensure your trees are adequately trimmed and pruned without going overboard.
Ready to get your trees ready for summer? We’ve got you covered. JL Tree Service offers a wide variety of tree pruning methods, crown cleaning and crown thinning services, and tree trimming services to keep your property’s trees in great shape all year long. To learn more about our tree services or to schedule an appointment for your trees, contact JL Tree Service today.
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