Summer Tree Stress: Signs Your Trees Are Overheating
How to Protect Your Trees During Central Wisconsin’s Hottest Months
As temperatures rise across Wausau and Central Wisconsin, it's not just your lawn that feels the heat—your trees do, too. Prolonged heat waves, drought conditions, and intense sunlight can lead to summer tree stress, a condition that weakens trees and leaves them vulnerable to pests, disease, and even death if ignored.
At Albright Enterprises, we want to help homeowners recognize the signs of heat stress and take steps to protect their trees through the peak summer months.
Common Signs Your Trees Are Overheating
1. Wilting or Curling Leaves
Leaves may appear limp, dry, or curled at the edges, especially during the hottest part of the day. This is a sign your tree is losing moisture faster than it can absorb it.
2. Leaf Scorch or Browning Edges
When leaves start turning brown from the outer edges inward, it’s usually a result of sun scorch and insufficient water reaching the canopy.
3. Early Leaf Drop
Some trees under extreme stress will begin shedding leaves prematurely in an effort to conserve energy and moisture.
4. Cracked Bark or Dieback
Excessive heat can cause bark to crack or peel, and stressed trees may start dying back from the tips of branches.
How to Prevent Summer Tree Stress
✔️ Deep Watering
Instead of frequent light watering, give your trees a slow, deep soak once or twice a week to ensure moisture reaches the root zone—especially during dry spells.
✔️ Mulching
Apply a 2–4" layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree (but not touching the trunk) to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.
✔️ Prune Smart
Remove dead or weak branches to improve airflow and reduce stress. Avoid heavy pruning during extreme heat.
✔️ Watch Newly Planted Trees
Young trees and transplants are especially vulnerable to heat stress and may need extra care and hydration.
When to Call in the Experts
If your tree shows signs of decline, don’t wait—early intervention can save it. At Albright Enterprises, our certified tree care professionals offer on-site evaluations, tree health assessments, and seasonal maintenance tailored to Central Wisconsin’s climate.
Stay One Step Ahead of Summer Stress
Protecting your trees during the summer ensures they remain strong and beautiful for years to come. Let Albright Enterprises help keep your landscape cool, green, and healthy—no matter how hot it gets.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation with a local tree expert.
