Summer Tree Care Tips for Healthy Trees
Summer is a great time to enjoy your garden, but it's also an important season for looking after your trees. Longer days and warmer temperatures encourage growth, but periods of dry weather, strong winds, and seasonal pests can also put trees under pressure.
A little maintenance during the summer months can help keep your trees healthy, attractive, and safe. Whether you have a mature oak providing shade or a recently planted ornamental tree, taking care of it now can help prevent problems later in the year.
Keep an Eye on Your Trees
One of the simplest things you can do is regularly check your trees for any signs that something isn't right.
Look out for dead branches, leaves that are discoloured or dropping earlier than expected, cracks in the bark, or signs of fungal growth around the base of the tree. These issues may seem minor at first, but they can sometimes indicate underlying health problems. The sooner a problem is identified, the easier it usually is to manage.
Don't Forget to Water During Dry Spells
While established trees are generally more resilient, long periods of hot and dry weather can still take their toll. Younger trees are particularly vulnerable because their root systems haven't had time to fully develop.
If rainfall has been limited, giving your trees a deep soak every so often can make a big difference. Deep watering encourages roots to grow further into the soil, helping the tree become stronger and more drought-resistant over time.
A good rule of thumb is to check the soil around the base of the tree. If it feels dry several inches below the surface, it's probably time to water.
Mulch Can Make a Big Difference
Mulching is often overlooked, but it is one of the easiest ways to support tree health during summer. A layer of bark, wood chips, or compost around the base of the tree helps the soil hold moisture for longer and reduces competition from weeds. It can also help regulate soil temperature during particularly warm periods. Just remember to leave a small gap around the trunk rather than piling mulch directly against it, as this can lead to moisture-related problems.
Remove Dead or Damaged Branches
Summer is a good time to deal with branches that have become dead, damaged, or unsafe.
Not only does this improve the appearance of the tree, but it can also reduce the risk of branches falling during windy weather. Removing damaged growth can also help the tree direct its energy towards healthy development.
However, large-scale pruning should be approached carefully, particularly during very hot weather. Every tree species responds differently, so professional advice is often worthwhile if significant work is required.
Watch Out for Pests and Disease
Many pests and tree diseases become more active during the warmer months. Leaves with holes, unusual spots, sticky residue, or signs of wilting can all indicate that something is affecting your tree's health. While some issues are relatively minor, others can spread quickly if left untreated. Regular inspections allow problems to be spotted early, before they cause lasting damage.
Prepare for Summer Storms
Although summer is often associated with sunshine, the UK can still experience sudden storms and strong winds. Trees with weak branches, structural defects, or hidden decay are more likely to suffer damage during severe weather. A professional inspection can help identify potential risks before they become a safety concern. This is especially important for trees located near homes, garages, driveways, fences, or public footpaths.
Keeping trees healthy often involves more than occasional watering or pruning. Professional tree care can help identify hidden issues, improve safety, and extend the lifespan of your trees.
At Brixton Tree Professionals, we provide expert tree inspections, pruning, crown reduction, tree removal, and stump grinding services. Whether you're concerned about a tree's condition or simply want advice on summer maintenance, our experienced team is here to help.
