Tree care in the heat of summer is specific to different species. If you’ve recently purchased a property and the trees look neglected, it may be wise to bring in a professional who can tell you what variety of tree you’re dealing with. They can also help you determine what time of year is best for pruning.

Pros of Summer Pruning

In addition to summer pruning being species appropriate, summer is an ideal time to note which branches are failing and need to come down. Many factors can lead to dead branches, including storm damage or disease. If a tree is diseased, you may not notice it until you see signs of damage on some leaves.

Once you know that a tree is unhealthy, pruning may be necessary to not only remove diseased branches but to protect the rest of your plantings. A skilled arborist can remove diseased branches and bundle them for removal from your property before fungi can spread. This same arborist can give you a warning if the damage is caused by an insect pest that needs to be eradicated from your property.

Bringing in heavy duty tree pruning tools, such as bucket trucks, can be safer and easier when the ground has dried in the summer heat. Even if they can work from your alley, saturated gravel can make it hard to level a lift or ladder. Dry soil is a more stable base for safe pruning.

Cons of Summer Pruning

Summer pruning can be tough on your tree professionals! Any outdoor work in the heat of summer comes with risks. Be prepared for your tree professional to start early and to take frequent breaks. Keep in mind that pruning tools may also need to cool down if the ambient temperature soars.

Stinging insects are most active during the warmth of summer. Hornets and wasps may have found a home in a dead branch and make things dangerous for your tree professional. It may be necessary for you to get a beehive moved or a wasp’s nest treated before your trees can be pruned.

A leafy canopy can become quite active if the wind picks up. Be prepared for your tree professional to come down and either wait or reschedule your tree pruning for a calmer day. Additionally, a tree pruner and their tools may draw curious children. Do your level best to keep guests out of your yard until the pruning process is complete.

If your Mobile, AL property needs tree trimming this summer, South Coast Outdoor Service can help you plan the process out for the health of your trees and the safety of your property.