Now that Spring is underway, all the trees on your property should be in or have already past their bloom. The month of June is the time where trees do a big push in growth and it’s important to conduct summer tree care properly to preserve the life and health of the trees in your yard.
Here’s what NOT to do to your trees right now:
Over-Pruning and Trimming. This rule greatly depends on the species of tree. Some can be pruned once they’ve already hit their peak. But the key here is to prune lightly. Otherwise the tree can get stressed and die. Also keep in mind, that every open cut (think of it as a wound) on a tree exposes it to pests and disease.
Typically, the better time to significantly cut trees back is during the late fall and early winter season.
Over-Mulch. Mulching is a good practice to protect the soil layer around the base of the tree. But don’t over-do it. It’s far better to spread mulch in a 3-4’’ layer around the base.
Do not pile mulch up against the trunk – we call that “volcano mulching”. It holds in too much moisture, which can cause the trunk and roots to rot and attract fungus. It also increases the likelihood of pestilence and termites.
Over-Water. Water according to soil condition – ideally, the ground beneath the tree should feel moist but not soaking wet all the time. Because over-watering and constantly soaking will suffocate the roots, which need air to breathe.
Plant New Trees. You can get away with planting in early June, but once the droughts and high heat of July and August hit, you do not want to be planting new trees. Chances are, it will be difficult to keep them watered well enough and you’ll lose them. It’s better to plant trees in mid-September and late Fall.
The easiest way to do this is to feel the ground beneath the tree to see if the soil is particularly dry, and apply water accordingly. If you can’t insert a screwdriver into the ground because it’s too hard, it needs more water.
Certain species need more water than others, so a little research may be helpful according to the variety of tree you’re tending. Visual signs of a tree in need of watering includes wilted or curling leaves, yellowing leaves, and early leaf drop.
So now you know what NOT to do, here’s what you should do:
The biggest threat to your trees during the month of June are pests and disease. Check them regularly for infestations and watch any trees that appear stressed or not growing thoroughly – i.e. dead branches or discoloring of leaves.
Some signs you have an infestation or disease on a tree:
– Powderly Mildew
– Root Rot
– Black knots on twigs
– Spots on leaves
– Holes in leaves
– Tiny holes from boring insects
– Rusting look on leaves
– Discoloration on leaves
– Lichens or fungus growing on the trunk or branches
If you have any questions about the health of the trees on your property, we’d be happy to come out and provide a free tree assessment so you can plan for optimum summer tree care.
Operating out of Glen Arm, MD, we service eastern Baltimore County and western Harford County, Maryland. We have years and years of experience and an excellent reputation for high-quality tree service.
Please give us a call today, or request a quote online, and we’ll schedule on the earliest available appointment!
