Summer is in full swing in Orange, VA, bringing sunshine, vacations, and…scorching temperatures! While lemonade stands are popping up all over town, offering a cool, refreshing treat to beat the summer heat, our trees also need a little help staying hydrated and healthy during these scorching months.
Remember, fall is just around the corner! If we want to see a spectacular display of vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows painting the landscape, we must follow these simple summer tree care tips.
Key Takeaways:
- Trees need consistent hydration, so aim to water them deeply at least once a week during dry periods.
- Only remove dead or hazardous branches during summer and postpone extensive pruning until late fall or winter.
- Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of your tree to retain moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds.
- Inspect your trees regularly for signs of insect damage or disease, as early detection means a better chance of successful treatment.
- Protect young trees with thin bark from sunscald and heat stress.
6 Ways to Care for Trees During Summer
Summer can be a challenging time for those that don’t appreciate the long, hot days, trees included. But with a little extra care, your trees can weather the heat and continue to provide beauty, shade, and environmental benefits for your home and community.
Here are some simple yet effective ways to show your trees some love during the hot summer months.
1. Water Thoroughly
Just like we wouldn’t dream of going without water on a hot day, trees need consistent hydration. But simply sprinkling water on the surface won’t do. The goal is to encourage roots to grow deeper into the soil, where they can access moisture reserves during dry spells.
For best results, use a slow, steady stream of water. This allows the water to penetrate the soil gradually, reaching the deeper roots where it’s needed most. A fast stream can cause runoff, waste water, and fail to hydrate the root zone effectively.
How Much Water Does My Tree Need?
The amount of water needed will vary depending on your tree’s size and species, as well as soil type, and weather conditions. To check if your tree needs watering, stick your finger a few inches into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water.
You should aim to water your trees thoroughly at least once a week during dry periods. This means soaking the root zone, which typically extends from the trunk to beyond the dripline (the outer edge of your tree’s canopy).
2. Limit Pruning
Tree pruning is normally considered a beneficial service because it helps control growth, removes dead or dying branches, and improve the tree’s overall structure.
However, extensive pruning during the summer months can be stressful for trees already battling the heat and dryness. It can also leave open wounds on the tree that are easy access points for pests and diseases.
One of the most problematic pests running rampant in Central Virginia in the summer is the emerald ash borer. This invasive beetle attacks and kills ash trees. So, unless your trees need immediate attention for safety reasons, it’s best to hold off on major pruning until the dormant season, which typically falls in late fall or winter.
3. Mulch Correctly
Don’t underestimate the power of mulch! When you properly mulch, it helps your trees with:
- Moisture Retention: Mulch is like a giant sponge surrounding the base of your tree. It not only holds onto a lot of water but also slows down the evaporation of water from the soil. This means less frequent watering and a consistent supply of moisture for your tree.
- Temperature Regulation: Mulch helps keep the soil cool and moist around the tree’s roots. That is especially important for newly planted trees or trees with shallow root systems, which are more susceptible to heat stress.
- Weed Suppression: Weeds are a nuisance and can compete with trees for water and nutrients. A layer of mulch around the base of your tree creates a barrier, making it difficult for weed seeds to germinate and establish themselves.
What Is the Correct Way to Mulch Trees?
Aim for a 2-3 inch layer around the base of your tree, but resist the urge to create a “mulch volcano” that piles directly against the trunk. This can trap moisture and invite pests. Instead, leave a few inches of space between the mulch and the trunk for proper air circulation.
4. Monitor for Pests and Diseases
While the emerald ash borer is a serious threat to ash trees in our area, it’s not the only pest or disease lurking in the summer heat. Here’s what you should watch out for:
- Signs of Insect Damage: Keep an eye out for chewed leaves, holes in leaves or the trunk, or unusual sap flow on your trees. These can be signs of various insects, such as beetles, caterpillars, or aphids.
- Discoloration: Changes in leaf color, like browning, yellowing, or spotting, can indicate disease or insect infestation. The sooner you identify the issue, the easier it is to provide appropriate treatment and save your tree. Don’t hesitate to investigate any unusual changes in your tree’s foliage.
- Unusual Growths: Fungal diseases may manifest as unusual growths on leaves, branches, or the trunk. If you notice any suspicious bumps, cankers, or mushrooms on your tree, it’s best to talk with a local Certified Arborist for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
5. Avoid Sunburn and Heat Stress
It’s not uncommon to experience hot and dry spells during the summer in Orange, VA. With scorching temperatures and intense sunlight, young trees with thin bark are especially vulnerable to sunscald, a type of sunburn that can damage the trunk and hinder growth.
If you’re concerned your tree is suffering from sunscald, consider using a shade cloth to provide temporary relief from intense sunlight during the hottest part of the day.
Other signs of heat stress to watch out for include:
- Wilting
- Drooping
- Leaf scorch
- Premature leaf drop
6. Get a Tree Assessment
Summer is an excellent time to schedule a professional assessment by a Certified Arborist. These tree care specialists can provide a comprehensive evaluation of your trees’ health, identifying any potential problems early on.
Here’s what a Certified Arborist can offer:
- Detailed Inspection: They will thoroughly examine your trees, looking for signs of disease, insect damage, structural weaknesses, and any other potential issues.
- Expert Advice: Based on their assessment, they can recommend your next steps, whether it’s pruning, pest control, tree injections, or other treatments.
- Future Tree Care: They can help you develop a long-term care plan for your trees, ensuring their health and beauty beyond just the summer.
Summer Tree Care is Worth the Investment – Call Dyer’s Tree Service Today!
Healthy trees not only provide cooling shade and a beautiful landscape, they also contribute to cleaner air and a healthier environment for our community. With increasingly hot summers due to global warming and the urban heat island effect, it’s even more important that we do what we can to save our trees.
Ready to give your trees the summer TLC they deserve? Dyer’s Tree Service is here to help! We can assess your trees’ needs, recommend the best course of action, and provide expert care to keep your trees healthy and vibrant year-round.
Call Dyer’s Tree Service today at 540-827-7245 to speak with one of our tree care experts or request a free estimate online.

Travis Dyer
Travis, a Virginia native, has a lifelong passion for trees. Growing up working alongside his father and uncle in the tree care industry, he gained invaluable experience and developed a deep respect for trees. Now, as a Certified Arborist himself, Travis continues to provide expert care services across Northern and Central Virginia.