How to Keep Your Trees Healthy During Arizona’s Extreme Summer Heat

1. Deep Watering: The Key to Strong Roots

Shallow watering won’t cut it in Arizona’s desert climate. The best way to keep your trees strong is to water deeply, encouraging roots to grow downward where moisture lasts longer. Aim to soak the soil to a depth of 2–3 feet, and focus your watering at the drip line—the area beneath the outer canopy, not right at the trunk.

• When to Water: Early morning or late evening to reduce evaporation.

• How Often: Young trees may need water twice a week, while mature trees typically do well with once a week. Adjust as needed based on soil moisture and weather conditions.

• How to Water: Use a slow-drip irrigation system or soaker hose for best results.

Not sure if your trees are getting enough water? PROS Tree and Landscape offers tree health assessments to ensure your trees are properly hydrated and healthy. Call us at 602-216-0400 to schedule an evaluation!

2. Mulch: A Cool, Moisture-Retaining Blanket

A thick layer of mulch around the base of your trees helps keep the soil cool and retains moisture, which is crucial during Arizona’s scorching summers. Remember to keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.

3. Protect Young Trees from Sunburn

Young trees are especially vulnerable to sunburn, which can cause lasting damage to the bark. Protect them by wrapping trunks with light-colored wraps or painting them with white latex paint. Remove wraps in the fall to avoid moisture buildup and rot.

4. Minimize Pruning During Extreme Heat

Avoid heavy pruning during the hottest months. If you must prune, do so sparingly and only as needed for safety.

5. Choose the Right Trees and Plant Wisely

Selecting heat-tolerant, native trees like Palo Verde, Desert Willow, and Acacia can make a big difference in your landscape’s resilience. Plant these trees on the south and west sides of your property where the sun is most intense. For less heat-tolerant varieties, choose locations with afternoon shade.