10 Tree Maintenance Tasks You Must Do Every Summer in Canberra

Canberra, the capital city of Australia, is known for its picturesque landscapes and beautiful tree-lined streets. The city's unique climate, with hot, dry summers and cold winters, makes proper tree care essential for maintaining their health and longevity. Every tree removal Canberra expert should perform a set of garden maintenance activities during the summer months to help keep your shrubs looking fantastic.

Keep your trees well-maintained with help from the following guide.

Watering

Water is vital for your trees, especially during Canberra's hot and dry summers. While established trees are more resilient to drought, newly planted trees need regular watering. Provide deep, infrequent watering, allowing the water to penetrate at least 30 cm into the soil. This encourages the development of deep root systems and helps trees withstand drought conditions.

Mulching

Applying a layer of organic mulch around the base of your trees helps conserve soil moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weed growth. Choose a mulch like wood chips, bark, or compost, and apply a layer 5-10 cm thick, extending 30-60 cm from the tree trunk. Avoid piling mulch against the trunk, as this can lead to trunk rot and other issues.

Pruning

Summer pruning is crucial for maintaining the health and structural integrity of your trees. Remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches to prevent the spread of pests and diseases. Prune crossing or rubbing branches to avoid potential damage. In Canberra, it's best to perform most of your pruning during the summer months when the tree's energy is focused on growth.

Inspecting for Pests and Diseases

Canberra's trees can be susceptible to various pests and diseases, such as the elm leaf beetle or fungal infections. Regularly inspect your trees for signs of infestations or illness, like discoloured leaves, oozing sap, or the presence of insects. If you notice any issues, consult with a local arborist for advice on treatment and prevention.

Fertilizing

Although not all trees require fertilization, some may benefit from a nutrient boost during the summer months. Use a slow-release, balanced fertilizer, ensuring you follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates and timing. Fertilizing can help promote healthy growth and increase a tree's resistance to pests and diseases.

Aerating the Soil

Compacted soil can restrict water, oxygen, and nutrient flow to tree roots. Gently aerate the soil around your trees, taking care not to damage roots, by using a garden fork or a specialized aeration tool. This helps improve water and nutrient uptake and promotes healthy root growth.

Supporting Young Trees

Newly planted or young trees may need extra support to establish a strong, upright growth habit. Use stakes and soft ties to provide support, taking care not to damage the trunk or restrict its growth. Remove supports once the tree has become well-established, usually after one to two growing seasons.

Removing Tree Suckers and Water Sprouts

Tree suckers and water sprouts can divert energy from the main tree, affecting its overall health and growth. Prune away any suckers growing from the base of the tree and water sprouts that emerge from branches or the trunk. Regular removal of these growths helps maintain your tree's health and appearance.

Protecting Trees from Sunscald

During Canberra's hot summers, tree trunks and branches can be susceptible to sunscald, which can cause cracking or splitting of the bark. To prevent this, you can apply a light-coloured tree wrap or paint the trunk with diluted white latex paint. This will help reflect sunlight and protect the tree from heat damage.

Regularly Consulting with a Certified Arborist

Trees are valuable assets to your property and the environment, and proper maintenance is essential for their health and longevity. Regularly consulting with a certified arborist can help identify potential issues and provide expert advice on tree care. Arborists can also provide specialized services like deep root fertilization, pest management, and advanced pruning techniques to ensure your trees continue to thrive in Canberra's unique climate.

Proper tree maintenance during Canberra's hot and dry summers is essential for keeping your trees healthy, beautiful, and safe. By working on the tasks listed above, you can ensure that your trees continue to flourish and provide countless benefits to your property and the environment. Remember to seek the advice of a certified arborist if you are unsure about any aspect of tree care or if you encounter any issues that require professional attention.