Extreme Temps affect our Trees

It is obvious that the heat of summer has set in with no sign of relief any time soon. We all feel the effects of the heat: lack of energy, premature exhaustion, and an overwhelming desire to seek the coolness of the shade. The fact is that our trees are affected in the same manner by these extreme temperatures.

Trees respond to the heat in very predictable ways. When temperatures rise above normal, tree roots become inactive. The flow of water and nutrients stops in order to prevent the tree from drying out completely. Portions of the leaf canopy that are less efficient are shed in order to retain the more productive portions of the tree.

Trees cannot seek the shade so they must change how they do things in order to stay alive. We see these stresses and must be careful not to over-react. It is dangerous to over fertilize or over water, even though that is an all too common reaction.

Arborists are trained to recognize the changes in plants based on the symptoms they exhibit in the leaf color, growth patterns, canopy condition, and overall vigor. Knowing the local weather conditions and patterns and how that information relates to this area’s plant species is vital in determining if changes are normal. Consult with your Arborist when you see things that you suspect are out of the ordinary.