Summer is the hardest time for trees in St. George. With temperatures often over 100 degrees Fahrenheit and rainfall around 8 inches per year, trees have a hard time. The majority of tree loss reported by St. George tree services during the summer is often attributed to undetected or untreated drought stress.
The Most Common Struggles Trees Face in St. George
Desert climates are intense and are getting worse each year. With compacted alkaline soil, trees in St. George have trouble absorbing moisture. Plus, St. George gets even hotter with the reflection of the heat off the pavement. Tree services in St. George see this major issue each summer when trees that are completely healthy in April become almost completely dead by July.
Signs of Drought Stress in Trees
Look for the following signs of drought stress in your trees between June and September:
- Leaf Scorch – Leaves with brown and crispy edges but remain green in the center.
- Permanent Wilting – If leaves droop in the morning, it’s a sign of distress, not simply a reaction to afternoon heat.
- Summer Leaf Drop – Leaves dropping in the summer is a sign of survival.
- New Growth – If the new growth is small and shriveled, the tree is rationing.
- Branch Dieback – If tree branches are dying, the tree is sacrificing branches to protect the center.
- Bark Damage – If the bark is cracked or peeling, it is a sign of drought.
If you see multiple signs, take action immediately.
Things To Consider Before Calling a Professional
It’s more efficient to deep water than to use a sprinkler system every day. Water the drip line for 30-60 minutes every 7-10 days. 3–4-inch applications of mulch will greatly reduce water loss to evaporation. Make sure mulch is not touching the trunk. Don’t fertilize trees that are showing signs of stress. Fertilizing will promote tree growth, increasing the tree’s water needs. For advanced care, a tree service in St. George will help you evaluate moisture issues in the root system and suggest deep root care.
Don’t Wait for It to Be Too Late
Trees under drought stress will have reduced levels of defense and become susceptible to insect and fungal attacks. After a tree has been infected by other insects, it is too late to save the tree. A professional tree service in St. George will help you find the problems and provide care before it is too late. If your trees display any of the above symptoms, get a professional evaluation as soon as possible, before the summer is over.