Young Trees, Big Heat: How to Keep Your Saplings Safe This Summer
Summer in San Antonio is no joke—especially for young trees trying to establish strong roots. With temperatures soaring and water restrictions in place, it’s critical to give your saplings the right care to survive the hottest months. Whether you’ve recently planted new trees or want to make sure your landscaping investment thrives, these tips will help protect your young trees during peak summer heat.
1. Smart Irrigation: Deep, Slow, and Early
Young trees have small, developing root systems that are especially vulnerable to drought and heat stress. Here’s how to water them wisely:
- Water Deeply: Rather than frequent shallow watering, aim for deep watering once or twice a week. This encourages roots to grow down where moisture lasts longer.
- Use Soaker Hoses or Drip Lines: These tools deliver water slowly and directly to the soil, reducing evaporation and targeting roots more effectively.
- Water in the Morning: Early morning watering allows time for absorption before the hottest part of the day and helps prevent fungal issues.
💡 Tip: San Antonio’s current water restrictions may limit watering days. Make the most of your allowed time by watering efficiently and deeply.
2. Mulch: Nature’s Cooling Blanket
Mulching is one of the best defenses against the Texas sun. It helps retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds.
- Apply 2–4 Inches of Organic Mulch: Use bark, wood chips, or compost. Spread it in a donut shape around the base of the tree—but keep it a few inches away from the trunk to avoid rot.
- Refresh Mulch as Needed: Especially in summer, mulch can break down or be blown away. Top it off as needed to maintain coverage.
💡 Pro Tip: Don’t use rocks or rubber mulch for young trees during peak summer—they can trap and radiate heat.
3. Provide Temporary Shade
For extremely young or recently transplanted trees, a bit of artificial shade can be a lifesaver.
- Use Shade Cloth or Burlap Screens: Set up temporary shading on the west and south sides of the tree to protect from intense afternoon sun.
- Avoid Blocking Airflow: Your shading setup should allow the tree to breathe while minimizing direct exposure.
- Only Shade Temporarily: Trees need sunlight to grow strong—shade is helpful during heatwaves but shouldn’t be permanent.
Bonus Tip: Avoid Stressful Activities
Don’t prune heavily, fertilize, or transplant young trees during peak summer. These activities can stress a tree further and reduce its ability to handle the heat.
Trust Barron Landscaping with Your Summer Tree Care
At Barron Landscaping, we understand the challenges of growing and protecting trees in San Antonio’s harsh summer climate. Whether you’re planting new saplings or need help maintaining your existing landscape, our expert team is here to help your trees thrive all year long.
📞 Contact us today to schedule a consultation or ask about our summer tree care services.