Many of the trees that were defoliated by the hail storms will, no doubt, react to the event by pushing out new leaf tissue. Since there are still several weeks of summer left we must do what we can to take care of the new plant material. Ensuring adequate watering and applying appropriate levels of nutrients and monitoring for disease activity must be the protocol for the next several months in order to avoid further losses.

When plants produce leaf and needle tissue in the middle of the season it is different than material produced in the spring. Leaf and needle tissue can be lighter in color and smaller in size. It is important for the new material to be as efficient as possible in order to help replenished the diminished energy reserves that resulted in the new leaf production. Slow release or timed release fertilizers help by supplying a controlled released of the needed nutrients to help improve leaf color and size. Adequate watering will ensure that any supplemented nutrients will have a carrier to be absorbed by the plant. Careful and diligent monitoring of the new plant material will ensure a fast and prudent reaction in the event that a pathogen becomes active. Mt. High has the resources to apply the needed nutrients to your trees and shrubs. Our Arborist’s are always available to consult with you in order to develop a plan after damaging weather events.