Summer in New Jersey brings long days, bright sun, and soaring temperatures. While it’s a favorite season for people, it can be a stressful time for trees. Without proper care, even healthy trees can suffer from drought, heat stress, and insect infestations. Fortunately, there are simple ways to protect your landscape—and Riverside Tree Experts is here to help.
Whether you’re a homeowner in Hunterdon County or managing a property in Bucks County, these tips will help keep your trees thriving all summer long.
1. Watering the Right Way
Trees need water—especially during dry summer spells—but more isn’t always better. Overwatering can cause root rot and fungus, while underwatering leads to wilted leaves and branch dieback.
Best practices:
- Deep watering 1–2 times per week is better than daily light watering.
- Water early in the morning or late evening to minimize evaporation.
- Focus on the root zone—not the trunk.
Pro tip: Mature trees require about 10 gallons of water per inch of trunk diameter.
2. Apply Mulch for Moisture and Protection
Mulching is one of the easiest ways to protect your trees from extreme heat. A 2–4 inch layer of organic mulch:
- Retains soil moisture
- Regulates soil temperature
- Suppresses weed growth
- Prevents soil erosion
Just be sure to leave a few inches between the mulch and the tree trunk to avoid rot and pest issues.
3. Watch for Summer Pests and Disease
Heat and drought weaken a tree’s natural defenses, making them more vulnerable to insects and disease. Keep an eye out for:
- Chewed leaves or thinning canopy
- Discoloration or spots on leaves
- Sawdust-like frass or holes in bark
If something seems off, Riverside Tree Experts can provide a full health assessment and treatment plan.
4. Summer Is a Smart Time to Trim
Many homeowners wait until fall or winter to prune, but light summer pruning has real benefits:
- Removes storm-damaged or dead limbs
- Reduces weight from heavy branches
- Helps control growth shape and size
- Improves air circulation
Avoid aggressive pruning in high heat. Our team knows how to assess what needs attention—and what’s better left for another season.
5. Plan Now to Avoid Storm Surprises
Thunderstorms and summer winds can bring down dead or unstable trees. Our arborists recommend tree risk assessments in July or August, before hurricane season ramps up.
Removing weak branches or correcting structural imbalances now can save you thousands in storm-related damage later.
Protecting Your Trees Is a Year-Round Effort
With just a few proactive steps, your trees can remain healthy and beautiful—adding shade, privacy, and value to your property. Riverside Tree Experts is ready to help with trimming, maintenance, and emergency prevention plans tailored to New Jersey’s unique climate.
