Summer Tree Care Tips: How to Protect Your Live Oaks in Central Florida by Aggressive Tree Pros & Stump Grinding, LLC

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Summer Tree Care Tips: How to Protect Your Live Oaks in Central Florida

🌳Summer Tree Care Tips 🌳 How to Protect Your Live Oaks in Central Florida: Summer heat can be tough on your live oaks!  Summer in Central Florida brings intense heat, sudden storms, and prolonged dry spells—conditions that can stress even the hardiest native trees like the Southern live oak (Quercus virginiana). These majestic oaks are a signature part of our landscapes in Winter Park, Lake Mary, Heathrow, Maitland, and beyond. But they still require regular maintenance to stay healthy and thrive year-round.

Hydration is Key

Young or newly planted live oaks need consistent moisture to establish healthy roots. Research from the University of Florida (UF/IFAS) shows that live oaks with ~2.5″ trunk diameter require watering 2–3 times per week for around 10 weeks, after which they are usually well enough established to rely on rainfall—provided that conditions are not unusually dry. https://hort.ifas.ufl.edu/

Mulch Matters:

A 2–4 inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree helps regulate soil temperature, retain moisture, and reduce weed competition. UF/IFAS emphasizes keeping mulch at least 2–3 inches away from the tree trunk to avoid trunk rot and pest issues (UF/IFAS: ENH1055). Mulching also enhances long-term soil health by improving organic matter levels and microbial activity.

Mid-Summer Check-Ups Are Crucial:

Mid-summer is an ideal time for a professional tree inspection. Certified arborists, such as those credentialed by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), can assess canopy health, inspect for structural defects, and identify early signs of pest or disease issues. The ISA encourages annual inspections for large mature trees and seasonal inspections following weather extremes (ISA Tree Owner's Manual).

Be on the Lookout for Pests and Disease

Warm, humid weather increases the risk of pests such as scale insects, oak leaf rollers, and mealybugs. Central Florida's live oaks are also vulnerable to fungal pathogens like Hypoxylon canker, especially in drought-stressed or wounded trees. UF/IFAS notes that pruning during the hot summer months should be done conservatively to avoid spreading pathogens and attracting insects (UF/IFAS: FOR70).

FAQ: Caring for Your Live Oaks This Summer in Central Florida

A: To protect your live oaks during summer, water them regularly, apply a 2–4 inch layer of mulch, and schedule a mid-summer check-up to catch early signs of stress or pest issues.

A: Mulch helps keep the soil moist and cool during extreme heat, which is essential for root health. It also reduces evaporation and helps prevent weed competition.

A: A mid-summer check-up includes inspecting for pests, signs of disease, deadwood, and overall canopy health to ensure the tree is thriving during peak stress season.

A: Yes. Aggressive Tree Pros provides hassle-free estimates for live oak care and inspections throughout Winter Park, Lake Mary, Maitland, and surrounding areas.

References:

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Aggressive Tree Pros & Stump Grinding LLC proudly serves Winter Park, Lake Mary, Heathrow, Maitland and the surrounding Central Florida region. Our experienced tree care team offers regular tree inspections to best protect your live oak trees from heat and pests this summer. 

We are a full-service tree company in Central Florida with decades of experience. Our staff includes a certified arborist and is ready to help you every step of the way. Contact us to schedule a free estimate and get started today. Call us at (407) 886-1800, (386) 215-7816 ( Español ) to request a free estimate or email us at [email protected] to get started today.

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