Summer Tree Care: When to Trim and When to Wait

Summer is around the corner, meaning it is time to engage in relaxing outdoor activities like swimming. As you plan to kick back, don’t forget to maintain your trees. Although the hot weather may not be ideal for rigorous outdoor tasks, pruning under the right circumstances is beneficial. That’s where Southern Star Tree comes in as your go-to tree care company for comprehensive services at competitive rates. Our certified arborists leverage extensive expertise and specialized equipment to inspect, diagnose, and recommend the most effective pruning technique for your needs.

Summer Tree Pruning/Trimming Tips

While tree service providers prefer pruning trees in the cold months, some situations may require immediate attention. If you decide to cut overgrown, infected, infested, or dead branches in the summer, here’s what you should know.

Light Pruning

As mentioned, the ideal time to conduct invasive tree care tasks like trimming and pruning is winter. However, summer pruning can offer many benefits when done right and under the right conditions. Summer pruning is usually light and should aim to improve the shape and appeal of your trees. It is advisable to refrain from major structural trimming, as it can cause severe damage and tree removal emergencies.

Avoid Major Cuts

The most common mistake people make when pruning in the summer is to cut more than 25% of the tree’s foliage. This not only causes stress but also premature tree removal in the case of severe deterioration. With this in mind, it is advisable to consult a professional tree service provider to implement the proper trimming technique and preserve sufficient foliage to maintain tree health.

Timing

When it comes to summer pruning, timing is crucial to ensure minimal damage and optimal growth. Consider the tree species and its growth patterns when determining the ideal time for summer pruning. If you prefer a more hands-off approach, hire certified arborists to handle the heavy lifting. Unlike untrained individuals, professionals can account for all the vital factors to ensure the perfect timing for summer tree care.

Benefits of Summer Tree Trimming

Now that you know about the right time to trim your trees in the summer, let’s delve into the advantages to ensure you make the right decision.

Pest Control

The main benefit of summer tree trimming or pruning is pest control. Check your trees for signs of pest activity or damage and note affected limbs. If the branches are small, you can use a pruning saw or shears to cut them down. However, huge branches require specialized equipment and skills, hence the need to hire a tree care company. Professionals can remove infected limbs and inspect surrounding trees to avoid spreading.

Enhanced Tree Health

The primary goal of summer trimming is to improve tree health and growth. By providing the proper care when your trees need it the most, you can rest assured that they will thrive throughout the hot months. Additionally, timely trimming ensures diseased or infested limbs don’t compromise the tree’s overall well-being.

Encourage Growth

Pruning or trimming in the summer is not just about cutting down branches but also encouraging new growth. Arborists and industry professionals recommend cutting weak growth about 3 inches from the end. This helps them grow stronger branches that can withstand strong winds and summer rains.

While summer trimming may be necessary for the reasons mentioned, it is advisable to know when to wait. With that said, consulting a reputable tree service can eliminate uncertainties and ensure you make the right decision for your trees. Contact Southern Star Tree to learn more about summer trimming and other maintenance practices that can ensure your trees remain in top shape year-round.