Though trees seem to be able to withstand many extreme weather conditions, hot summers are very hard on trees. Did you know that urban trees are even more affected by the heat than those in rural areas? Roads, sidewalks, driveways and buildings reflect sunlight onto trees, and they must cool themselves to stay alive.
Here are some ways to help trees stay cool during high temperatures, from Texas A&M AgriLife Extension:
- Make sure the soil stays moist, so the tree has as much water available to use as possible.
- Mulch the soil around the tree to increase water retention. Use traditional hardwood mulch or plants as living mulch to cover the soil and keep it cooler.
- Use berms and structures to keep the hot air from hardscapes from swirling around trees.
- Do not prune green wood. Prune only to remove dead, broken or diseased areas when it is hot.
Note that a heat wave is not the time to fertilize—wait until the following spring to fertilize again. Also be careful about using pesticides—horticultural oils and some insecticidal soaps, for example, can cause death if used when it is hot outside.
Maintaining healthy trees, especially during a hot period, is important not just for the tree’s health but for the valuable air pollution removal, oxygen and shade they provide, affecting our own health—and air conditioning bills!
More information, including signs of heat stress in trees: click here
