Summertime Tree Care (NZ)
Summer in New Zealand is all about long days, outdoor living, and enjoying our gardens and outdoor areas, but it can also be a very stressful season for trees. Extended dry periods, sudden heavy rain, strong winds, and high humidity all place added pressure on trees, particularly when they are in full leaf.
During prolonged dry spells, soil can become hard and compacted, limiting water uptake and weakening root systems. When heavy rain follows, water may sit on the surface rather than soaking in, reducing stability and increasing the risk of trees shifting or failing in windy conditions. At the same time, summer canopies are at their densest. Thick foliage catches the wind like a sail, placing extra strain on branches and attachment points.
Summer warmth also encourages pest and fungal activity. Issues such as borer, insects and decay fungi often begin subtly but can compromise a tree’s structural integrity if left untreated. After rain, trees commonly produce a flush of new growth. While this may look healthy and bring a pop of green to your outdoor space, soft, fast-growing shoots are more vulnerable to snapping during storms.
Proactive summer care helps trees cope with these challenges. Regular inspections, removing dead or weakened limbs, and selectively thinning dense canopies allow wind to pass through more freely. Trees located near buildings, driveways, fences, play areas, or powerlines should be monitored closely, as even small failures can cause significant damage to the surrounding area.
Supporting trees through deep, slow watering during dry periods and applying mulch to help regulate soil moisture can also improve overall resilience. Mulch is readily available from your local arborist and can be delivered by the truck load or in smaller quantities if required.
At Beaver Tree Service, our qualified arborists understand how New Zealand’s summer conditions affect trees. Early intervention is the key, and professional advice can prevent costly damage, improve tree health, and help ensure your trees remain healthy, safe and thriving throughout the summer months.
Bryce Robb, Head Arborist, Beaver Tree Service
