Summer is here and the time is right, for looking after your trees! Tree care is just as important in summer as it is in other months. So what maintenance should be done at this time of year to keep your trees healthy? Here are our top summer tree pruning and maintenance tips to keep your trees in great shape throughout the season and well into the year ahead.
1. Prune
Pruning trees has a number of benefits when done correctly. A good prune keeps your tree healthy by removing at risk branches, improves overall strength, allows light and air in, and generally makes your tree a safer tree. Whilst many gardeners believe that pruning should only be done in the cooler months, it is always a good time to prune dead, dying or diseased branches from your trees as they can be hazardous and at risk of falling, as well as causing your tree undue stress. Not doing so leaves your tree susceptible to disease and pest infestation, can prevent growth and weaken your tree, making it at risk of sickness and ultimately falling over.
Summer storms and severe weather can result in your tree having more damaged branches than normal, so keep an eye on them and prune when necessary.
Some trees respond well to additional pruning in Summer such as certain types of flowering and fruit trees which benefit from the increase in air circulation and light penetration, encouraging quality fruit growth. Summer fruiting trees such as lychees and mangoes should be lightly trimmed back once you’ve harvested the fruit to keep them at a manageable size.
If you are going to prune your trees yourself, only do so if you know exactly what you’re doing. Pruning done well is amazingly beneficial. Pruning done badly can be disastrous. Pruning can be demanding and dangerous work. Be sure to use the right tools and safety gear for the job. Tools should be sharp so they don’t tear the branch and leave a wound open to pest and disease.
2. Water
As the temperature goes up, you may need to water your trees more regularly, especially young, newly planted trees. Have a look at the soil, if it’s looking particularly dry you’ll need to give your trees some water – but be sure to do so first thing in the morning or in the late afternoon to allow the water to be absorbed properly.
3. Mulch
Using mulch in your yard is like giving trees a health tonic. Mulch regulates temperature, helps retain moisture and nutrients in the soil, assists with keeping pests away and it looks and smells amazing! Plus, it’s relatively cheap and super easy to apply.
4. Protect
If you have young or newly planted trees that may be particularly prone to damage during the severe weather of summer, you may want to brace or cable susceptible limbs and provide a wind break around them.
5. Arborist Inspection
There’s no better time than right now to have a professional Arborist do an inspection of your trees. An Arborist will be able to identify any issues and advise what course of action is required to keep your trees safe and healthy long into the year.
Don’t Have The Time Or Don’t Need The Hassle?
Aussie Tree Solutions are your local team of tree experts – we’ve been taking care of trees in Brisbane and beyond for over 40 years. Let us take the hard work out of your tree care and provide you with an easy, convenient solution for your total peace of mind. We provide a full range of tree care services from expert pruning to mulch and consulting Arborist services.
Call Aussie Tree Solutions anytime, 24/7 and ask for a free quote on our tree pruning and maintenance services this summer.