As the days get longer and the weather warms up across the UK, your trees are entering their most active growing season. Whether you’ve got a small garden or a larger outdoor space, now’s the perfect time to give your trees some attention so they stay healthy, strong, and looking their best.
Here’s a simple guide to caring for your trees this spring and summer 👇
1. Water Wisely (Especially Young Trees)
Spring rainfall helps, but it’s often not enough — particularly during increasingly common dry spells in late spring and summer. Newly planted trees (within the first 2–3 years) are especially vulnerable and require consistent watering to establish strong roots.
- Aim to water deeply once or twice per week, rather than little and often
- Ensure moisture reaches 15–20cm into the soil
- Sandy soils may need more frequent watering, while clay soils retain moisture longer
- Watch for signs of stress such as wilting leaves, leaf scorch, or early leaf drop
Deep watering encourages roots to grow downwards, making trees far more drought-resistant over time.
2. Light Pruning & Seasonal Maintenance
Spring and summer are ideal for light pruning and general maintenance, helping trees stay healthy and well-shaped.
Focus on removing:
- Dead or dying branches
- Damaged limbs from winter weather
- Crossing or rubbing branches
This improves airflow and reduces the risk of fungal diseases. However, avoid heavy pruning during this time, as it can:
- Stress the tree
- Trigger excessive, weak regrowth
- Increase vulnerability to pests and disease
Certain species (like birch and maple) are particularly sensitive to pruning at the wrong time, so it’s always worth getting professional advice if you’re unsure.
3. Mulching Matters More Than You Think
Mulching is one of the simplest and most effective ways to improve tree health — yet it’s often overlooked.
A good mulch layer will:
- Retain moisture in the soil
- Suppress weeds that compete for nutrients
- Regulate soil temperature during hot weather
- Gradually improve soil structure and fertility
Deep watering encourages roots to grow downwards, making trees far more drought-resistant over time.
4. Boost Growth with Deep Root Fertilisation
If your trees are struggling, showing slow growth, or located in compacted soil, deep root fertilisation can make a significant difference.
This process involves injecting nutrients directly into the soil around the root zone, bypassing compacted surface layers where roots often struggle to access oxygen and nutrients.
Key benefits include:
- Stronger, more established root systems
- Improved drought resistance during summer
- Healthier, fuller foliage
- Faster recovery from stress or poor soil conditions
This is particularly effective in urban gardens, high-traffic areas, or heavy clay soils, which are common across the UK.
5. Target Pests & Disease with Trunk Injection
For certain pests and diseases, traditional spraying isn’t always the most effective or environmentally friendly solution.
Trunk injection delivers treatment directly into the tree’s vascular system, allowing it to work from within.
Benefits include:
- Targeted treatment with minimal waste
- Reduced environmental impact compared to spraying
- Long-lasting protection
- No drift onto surrounding plants or surfaces
This approach is becoming increasingly popular as a safe and effective treatment method.
6. Protect Trees During Heatwaves
While the UK climate is typically mild, recent years have shown that prolonged heatwaves are becoming more common.
Young and newly planted trees are most at risk, but even established trees can suffer during extended dry periods.
To protect them:
- Maintain a consistent deep watering routine
- Use mulch to help retain soil moisture
- Reduce competition from grass and weeds around the base
- Consider temporary shading or wind protection for more delicate trees
Signs of heat stress include:
- Leaf curling or browning
- Premature leaf drop
- Slowed growth
Acting early can prevent long-term damage.
7. Check Supports, Stakes & Tree Stability
Tree supports are essential when a tree is first planted — but leaving them in place too long can actually do more harm than good.
As trees grow:
- Check that ties are not too tight and aren’t damaging the bark
- Ensure the tree still has slight natural movement (this helps strengthen the trunk)
- Adjust or remove stakes once the tree becomes stable
A tree that can move slightly in the wind will develop a stronger root system and better long-term stability.
Keep Your Trees Healthy All Year Round
Taking care of your trees during spring and summer sets the foundation for a healthy, thriving landscape all year round.
If you’re unsure about the condition of your trees, or need help with pruning, treatments, or soil improvement, it’s always best to get professional advice before small issues turn into costly problems.
At Lancashire Tree Services, we help homeowners and businesses across the region keep their trees safe, healthy, and well-maintained with expert care tailored to UK conditions.
Tree Surgeon Services in Lytham St Annes, Blackpool & Across Lancashire
We are your local tree surgeons in Blackpool, Lytham St Annes, and throughout Lancashire. Our comprehensive services include tree planting, tree pruning, tree removal, crown reductions, stump grinding, hedging and more. Whether you need a tree surgeon in Blackpool, Lytham St Annes, or throughout Lancashire we have you covered. Explore our services or contact us to see how we can help maintain your trees.