Does it look like autumn already for the trees in your yard? Are they losing leaves or dropping branches? Many people become very concerned when they noticed their trees’ leaves turning early or dropping in August, but should they worry? In this month’s blog we will talk about what is normal and what are some signs of stress for trees this summer.

If someone notices their trees dropping twigs or leaves early, the actual terms for this are ““summer dormancy,” “summer leaf drop,” and “cladoptosis,” the latter meaning “a branch” and “falling.”” (Arbor Day Foundation). “This may be due to planting a sun-loving species in the shade or vice versa, or it might be a reaction to soil compaction. Saturated soil can also be a cause. More often, however, it is simply due to heat and drought. In this case, the dropping of branches and early shedding of leaves is temporary and harmless.”

“Generally speaking, most deciduous plants can cope with early foliage loss, but other stresses may take their toll. Plants that were already in trouble before the excessive heat and drought may not fare as well or perhaps even succumb. But most plants that are otherwise healthy will recover as more favorable growing conditions return.” (Purdue University)

If you notice your trees starting to show signs of stress, they may need a little help from you to make it through the hottest and driest part of the year. Here are some tips for summer watering if necessary. “For young trees we encourage a deep-watering by running the hose over the root zone for about 30 seconds. The idea is to reach the full root depth and keep the soil damp, not soggy. Mature trees are best left to nature; unless you’re suffering from severe drought conditions, let your rainfall do the watering.” (Arbor Day Foundation).

Despite all your best efforts, some trees are not able to survive the summer heat and drought. If you believe that one of your trees is not salvageable, contact a certified arborist to help you evaluate, as well as assist with removal of the tree.

Browning Tree Service is a proud member of Indiana Arborist Association and International Society of Arboriculture, serving the West Lafayette and Lafayette, Indiana area!

Resources

http://arbordayblog.org/treecare/summer_tree_care/

https://www.purdue.edu/hla/sites/yardandgarden/stressed-plants-may-look-like-early-fall/

http://arbordayblog.org/treecare/proper-summer-watering-of-trees/