A Silent Struggle: How August Heat Affects Your Trees August in Arkansas often brings relentless heat, and while we're all feeling the effects, there's a silent struggle happening right above our heads. The intense, prolonged heat we're experiencing is particularly bad for the health of our trees, and it's important to understand why. The Science Behind the Stress Trees, much like people, need water to survive. During hot and dry periods, a tree's primary focus is on conserving water . They do this by closing the stomata—tiny pores on their leaves—which limits the amount of water they lose to the atmosphere. However, this also means they can't take in carbon dioxide, which is essential for photosynthesis. The tree essentially goes into survival mode, and its growth slows or stops completely. What to Look For: Signs of Heat Stress When a tree is struggling with heat and drought, it will show a few key signs. Being able to spot these early can make a big difference: Wilting and drooping leaves: This is the most common sign. The leaves may look limp and hang downward. Premature leaf yellowing or browning: In an effort to conserve water, a tree may begin to shed leaves that are no longer necessary, causing them to turn yellow or brown and fall off earlier than usual. Curling leaves: The edges of the leaves may curl inward, another tactic to reduce the surface area exposed to the sun and conserve moisture. Pests and disease: A stressed tree is a weak tree. When a tree's defenses are down, it becomes more susceptible to opportunistic pests and diseases that it would normally be able to fend off. How You Can Help While we can't control the weather, there are things you can do to help your trees get through this difficult time: Water deeply and infrequently: Instead of short, daily waterings, aim for a long, slow soak every 7 to 10 days. This encourages deeper root growth, making the tree more resilient to future drought. Mulch is your friend: A 2-4 inch layer of mulch around the base of the tree (but not touching the trunk) helps the soil retain moisture, keeps the roots cool, and reduces competition from weeds. Avoid pruning: Pruning during periods of heat stress can add to a tree's stress. It's best to wait until cooler weather to do any major trimming. If you're concerned about the health of your trees or notice any of the signs of heat stress, it's a good idea to consult a professional. At Brown's Tree Care, we're here to help you understand your trees' needs and develop a plan to keep them healthy for years to come. We are proud to be voted the #1 tree company in Northwest Arkansas for a third year in a row! Don't wait until it's too late. Estimates are free , so give us a call today. Brown's Tree Care | 479-273-0202