Tag Archive for: tree maintenance

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Summer tree maintenance: protecting your trees from heat and storms

Summer can bring a whole manner of challenges for trees- from heat stress and drought to summer storms. At Simpson Arboriculture, we know first-hand that regular tree maintenance can help keep trees healthy and reduce risks.

High temperatures and drought can hugely impact the health of trees. It can cause leaf scorch, wilting and dehydration. Signs to look out for include brown or curling leaves and even premature leaf drop.

How to protect your trees from heat stress

Adding a layer of mulch around the base of a tree is a great way to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Deep watering is also vital to help trees stay hydrated. During hot weather, we would recommend watering early in the morning or late in the evening. Watering during hot, sunny weather can cause leaves to scorch. Deep watering is much more effective than frequent, shallow watering.

For suggestions of tree species that cope well with dry, hot conditions, you can gain more information by having a read of The Royal Horticultural Society’s (RHS) article: Trees for Climate Change.

The risks of summer storms

Summer storms can wreak havoc for your trees. They often bring ample amounts of rainfall which can cause waterlogging. They also very often bring high winds. This can cause tree branches to break and fall. Any weak points in trees that have been left unchecked can soon make themselves known in the form of snapped out branches or falling limbs.

Preparing for stormy weather

As with many things, preparation is key! We always recommend assessing your trees regularly to ensure that they are in good health and vitality. As part of your summer tree maintenance, checking for weak points, dead branches or even overgrown branches is essential. These could quickly become hazardous if left unchecked. Did you know that thinning out a tree’s canopy can reduce wind resistance by allowing the wind to move through it more easily? 

At Simpson Arboriculture, our professional team can advise you on the health and condition of your trees, and suggest key maintenance work to keep them healthy and minimise risk. From removing dead branches, thinning a tree’s canopy or reducing overhanging branches, we have the knowledge and expertise to advise you on what is most necessary. Our friendly team at Simpson Arboriculture can take care of the whole process from start to finish.

Get in touch

In conclusion, it’s always good to be prepared! Summer tree maintenance is very often better (and cheaper) than dealing with dehydrated or storm damaged trees afterwards. As a tree owner, there are lots of things you can do to ensure the health of your trees yourself, from mulching and regular watering, to doing annual visual checks of your trees.

If you think your trees would benefit from some expert tree maintenance work, contact Simpson Arboriculture. You can reach us in the office or via our website. We are always happy to discuss different options, sharing our professional opinions and quote for any work that is needed.

Summer pruning of tree
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The Importance of Regular Tree Maintenance Through the Seasons

At Simpson Arboriculture, we know that trees are not only a beautiful addition to your landscape but also vital for a healthy environment. To keep your trees thriving and safe, it’s essential to provide them with regular maintenance throughout the seasons. In this blog, we will discuss the importance of year-round tree care and the specific tasks you should consider to ensure that your trees remain healthy and strong.

Spring: Pruning and inspection

Spring is the season of renewal and it’s the perfect time to kickstart your tree maintenance routine. Here’s why:

  1. Pruning. Early spring, before the leaves fully emerge, is an ideal time for tree pruning. This process helps remove dead or damaged branches and encourages new growth. It’s always best to check with the experts of course, as some tree species have different requirements. Our team at Simpson Arboriculture would be happy to advise you.
  2. Disease and pest prevention. As trees start to bud, it’s essential to inspect them for signs of disease or pest infestations. Early detection can prevent these issues from spreading and causing serious damage.

Summer: Hydration and mulching

  1. Hydration. Regularly water your trees, especially during dry spells to prevent stress and dehydration. Deep watering is more effective than surface watering.
  2. Mulching. Apply a layer of mulch around the vase of your trees to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature and suppress weed growth.

Autumn: Removal and assessment

In the Autumn, leaves begin to fall and it’s time to start preparing your trees for winter.

  1. Leaf removal. Keeping your lawn free of fallen leaves can help prevent diseases, improve air circulation and avoids suffocating your grass and trees
  2. Assessment. Use the autumn season to inspect your trees for structural issues and consider pruning or cabling to prevent winter-related breakage.

Winter: Pruning and protection

While many trees may appear dormant in winter, it’s still a crucial season for maintenance.

  1. Pruning (late winter). Late winter is an excellent time to prune trees while they are dormant. Again, it is always best to check with a professional to ensure that this is right for the tree species as the best time for pruning for some species will vary.
  2. Protection from the elements. Winter storms can be harsh on trees. Be sure to protect them from heavy snow and ice, and consider wrapping young trees to prevent frost damage.

Year-round tree care and maintenance

Simpson Arboriculture emphasises the importance of regular tree maintenance through all seasons. Each season offers unique opportunities to care for your trees, ensuring their health, longevity and safety. If you’re unsure about the specific needs of your trees, it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional arborist. This will help you to plan your tree maintenance and the best time of the year to carry out the work. A little care throughout the year goes a long way in preserving the natural beauty of your garden and ensuring strong and healthy trees for many years to come.

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