Welcome to our 4 part series on Summer tree care in SW Missouri

Protecting Trees from Heat and Pests During the Hottest Season

Summers in southwestern Missouri bring high temperatures, dry spells, and often intense humidity. These conditions can put significant stress on trees, especially if they are young or recovering from previous seasons. Effective summer tree care is crucial to maintaining healthy, resilient trees that can withstand these seasonal challenges. This guide will walk you through the key tree care tasks to focus on during the summer months to ensure that your trees stay vibrant and strong.

Why Summer Tree Care is Essential in SW Missouri

Southwestern Missouri experiences a blend of hot temperatures and occasional droughts that can be tough on trees. Heat stress, dehydration, and pest infestations are common issues during the summer. Providing additional care during this time helps protect trees and gives them the resilience to thrive as the season progresses. Here’s how to keep your trees healthy during the hottest months.

1. Deep Watering During Dry Spells

One of the most important tasks during the summer is ensuring that your trees receive adequate water. While rain can often cover these needs, summer droughts in Missouri make it necessary to supplement natural rainfall with deep watering.

• Watering Frequency: During periods of little to no rain, water mature trees every 7-10 days. Young trees, especially those planted within the past couple of years, may require water more frequently. A good rule of thumb is to check the soil moisture and water when the top 2-3 inches are dry.
• Deep Watering Technique: Shallow watering encourages roots to stay near the surface, making them more vulnerable to drought. Deep watering, on the other hand, encourages roots to grow deeper into the soil, enhancing drought tolerance. To deep water, let a hose trickle slowly at the tree’s base, allowing water to penetrate the soil deeply.
• Optimal Times: Water trees in the early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation. This timing ensures that trees absorb the maximum amount of water while avoiding midday heat stress.

By watering deeply and consistently, you help trees develop robust root systems, which provide stability and strength even during dry spells.