How to Protect Your Trees During Summer Heat
Judie Docs, Executive Officer – CSP, MCSP, CGP, CMP, MIRM
North Coast Building Industry Association (NCBIA) www.ncbia.com
Whether it’s for lounging, grilling, or playing with their children, homeowners often rely on shade from trees to enjoy outdoor summer activities. Trees add comfort and character to a property, but prolonged heat and dry soil can take a toll. When routine care is overlooked, especially during the hottest months of the year, tree health can decline and change more than just appearance.
Healthy trees directly affect home energy usage and property values and can make a noticeable difference indoors. Trees that shade the roof, windows and exteriors doors can save homeowners up to 56% annually on air-conditioning costs by allowing less heat inside, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. And for long-term home value, 74% of buyers want a lot with trees, according to NAHB analysis.
As you settle into your landscaping routine this summer, consider the following steps to help maintain your trees during hotter weather.
Water Regularly
Watering your trees during the warm summer months is essential so they can stay healthy. According to the Arbor Day Foundation, trees that are two years or older should be watered once per week or even every other week, and younger trees should be watered two or three times per week. Generally, the best time to water your trees is in the early morning or evening so the water can absorb in the ground better than during the hottest part of the day. The usual rule of thumb is to give trees about 10 gallons of water per inch of trunk diameter.
Watch for Leaf Scorch
During hot, dry periods, one of the most common ways to tell the health of your trees is by examining their leaves. According to the Arbor Day Foundation, leaf scorch, the browning along a leaf’s edges or needles, happens when a tree loses water faster than it can replace it. This is often due to excessive heat, drought or inconsistent watering and is a sign that your tree needs additional attention and water.
Examine Damage After Summer Storms
Summer storms can cause damage even to healthy trees. Following storms, look for any visible damage, like large leaning trees or limbs entangled with power lines, as these can cause neighborhood-wise issues if handled incorrectly. In these cases, it’s important to have a trustworthy professional examine your trees, diagnose any issues, and perform the necessary work. However, poor advice or rushed decisions by fly-by-night tree “experts” can lead to unnecessary removals or long-term damage that shortens your tree’s lifespan.
Routine care throughout summer helps protect your trees’ health and curb appeal. For more tips on summer landscaping and home maintenance, contact the NCBIA.
We are your not-for-profit association serving Lorain, Erie & Huron counties. Using an NCBIA member is an important step in protecting your investment. If you’re unsure whether your contractor is an NCBIA member—or if you’re looking for a trusted professional—visit www.ncbia.com or call 440-934-1090. Be sure to check out our job posting board under the Industry tab as well.
Explore from Anywhere: NCBIA’s 24/7 Virtual Parade of Homes
Our Virtual Parade of Homes allows you to tour new homes and communities from local builders anytime, on your computer or mobile device. We know your time is valuable, and this convenient tool helps you find a home or community that fits your lifestyle—on your schedule.
Like us—or better yet, share us—on Facebook and stay connected with everything happening in our local building industry.