Six Basic Summer Tree Care Tips
August 17, 2019

August 17, 2019

Six Basic Summer Tree Care Tips

Proper tree care is a year round job. Each season presents its own challenges and opportunities to keep the best looking and healthiest landscape and property possible. Here are six ideas for keeping your trees strong and healthy during the summer.   1. Watering Florida is known for its summer rainstorms. We get them just about every afternoon some seasons. But, if you have newly planted trees and the pattern isn't as regular, you might need to supplement by watering. It is generally best to water with a low flow for an extended period vs a quick dousing because the quick version will run off or evaporate before it can get deep into the tree's root system. Figure about an inch a week for healthy trees and adjust your watering accordingly as you observe the local rainfall.   2. Should I Mulch? It would be best to have the mulch already in place, but the expression "better late than never" applies here. Mulching is an important part of caring for your trees. It reduces weed competition, conserves soil moisture, and stabilizes soil temperatures. A general rule is to mulch trees with three to four inches of shredded hardwood. The preferred method of mulching is to form an even donut shaped layer around the base of the tree, keeping it several inches away from the trunk as it may otherwise promote rot, disease and insects by keeping the base of the tree overly moist.   3. Inspecting for Pests Examine your trees for pests throughout the summer season. While most insects won't harm your trees, finding any potential pest problems early on gives you a head start in controlling them. Pests like bagworms, spider mites, aphids, tent caterpillars, dogwood borers, magnolia scale and pine bark beetles are just some of the more common pests to look for in Florida. Certified arborists, like the ones here at Mid-Florida Tree Service, can help you identify these pests.   4. Feeding Your Trees: Just like animals, plants, in our case trees, must receive nutrients to live and thrive. Trees that are getting proper nutrition are healthier and better able to protect themselves from pests and diseases. In the forest, decaying biomass (leaves and such) provides all the nutrients trees need, but around our homes and business with concrete and pavement and our desire to keep things looking neat and clean, we keep biomass to a minimum. Mid Florida Tree Service can do a soil analysis to help determine what kind and how much fertilizer your trees may need.   5. Trimming There is both art and science involved in pruning trees. We generally suggest pruning during a dormant period, but trees that bloom in springtime may do better when pruned in early summer, just after their blooms fall away. Another reason for a summer pruning would be to remove dead, dying or damaged branches. Removing bad branches is important for safety as well as for the health of the tree. It is especially important with large trees that this work is done by knowledgeable professionals.   6. Bracing for Storm Season Florida's storms are at their peak during the summer. With clockwork thunderstorms as well as Hurricanes and Tropical Storms, summertime can be rough! Have one of our certified arborists inspect your trees before the storms come. Proper tree care can prevent property damage and reduce the risk of injury caused by falling branches. This preventative care will likely include a combination of pruning, cabling and bracing. Some weak limbs may need to be completely removed.    No matter the season, no matter the tree service need, count on us to take the best care of your trees. 

By Mid Florida Tree Service January 15, 2026
HOA communities rely on consistent, professional landscape care to protect property values and resident safety. Trees are one of the most visible and valuable assets in a neighborhood, but without a structured maintenance plan, they can quickly become a liability. We work with HOA boards and property managers in Wesley Chapel to develop long term tree maintenance programs that reduce risk, control costs, and keep communities looking their best. Why HOAs Need a Tree Maintenance Plan Tree care in a large community cannot be handled on a reactive basis. Waiting until branches fall or complaints arise often leads to higher costs and increased liability. A planned approach allows boards to stay ahead of problems and budget responsibly. A structured maintenance plan helps: Reduce emergency service calls. Identify hazardous trees before they fail. Maintain consistent appearance across the community. Spread costs predictably over the year. Protect the HOA from avoidable liability claims. Planning ahead creates stability for both the board and the residents. What a Professional HOA Tree Plan Includes Every HOA has different needs depending on tree species, age, and layout. We tailor each plan to the specific community after a full evaluation. A typical maintenance plan may include: Scheduled inspections by certified arborists. Routine pruning to manage canopy growth and visibility. Removal of dead or declining trees before they become hazards. Storm preparation pruning in high risk areas. Post storm evaluations to assess damage and safety. Written documentation for board records and insurance needs. This approach ensures trees are managed consistently rather than piecemeal. Supporting Board Decisions With Professional Evaluations HOA boards are often required to justify maintenance decisions to residents. Having professional assessments helps remove uncertainty and emotion from the process. Our arborists provide clear explanations and written recommendations that help boards: Understand which trees pose real risk. Prioritize work based on safety and urgency. Communicate decisions clearly to homeowners. Demonstrate responsible management practices. This transparency builds trust within the community. Budget Predictability and Cost Control One of the biggest advantages of a maintenance plan is predictable budgeting. Scheduled care reduces the likelihood of costly emergency removals and allows boards to plan expenses in advance. With a maintenance plan, HOAs benefit from: Fewer unexpected expenses. Better long term cost control. Reduced damage from storms due to proactive pruning. Improved vendor accountability. Consistency leads to fewer surprises and better financial planning. Experience With HOA and Municipal Standards We work with HOA communities throughout Hillsborough County and eastern Pasco, including Wesley Chapel. Our team includes certified arborists who participate in Tampa’s Self Certified Private Arborist Program. This experience allows us to align tree care practices with local standards and regulatory expectations. Boards can be confident that recommendations are based on professional training and industry best practices. A Long Term Partner for Your Community Tree maintenance is not a one time task. It is an ongoing responsibility that requires experience, consistency, and clear communication. We focus on building long term partnerships with HOA boards and property managers who want reliable service and professional guidance. Schedule a Community Tree Evaluation If your HOA is reviewing contractors or planning future maintenance, a professional evaluation is a strong first step. We can assess your community’s trees and propose a maintenance plan that fits your goals and budget. Call Mid Florida Tree Service at (813) 588-0315 to schedule an HOA tree maintenance consultation in Wesley Chapel.
By Mid Florida Tree Service January 15, 2026
Tree roots and septic systems do not always coexist well. In many Florida properties, septic systems are located in yards with mature trees nearby. While trees provide shade and beauty, their roots naturally seek out moisture and nutrients, which can put them on a collision course with septic tanks and drain fields. Understanding the risks early can help prevent costly repairs and serious damage. Why Tree Roots Are Drawn to Septic Systems Septic systems create an environment that roots find attractive. Drain fields release moisture into the soil, and even small leaks from pipes can provide a steady water source. Roots grow toward these conditions and can slowly invade system components.  Roots are especially drawn to: Moist soil around drain lines. Nutrient rich areas near leach fields. Small cracks or joints in older septic pipes. Consistently damp soil caused by system use. Once roots find a way in, they continue to grow and expand inside the system. Problems Tree Roots Can Cause Root intrusion does not always cause immediate failure, but it often leads to progressive damage. Common issues include: Cracked or blocked pipes. Reduced drainage in the leach field. Sewage backups or slow drains in the home. Structural damage to the septic tank. Costly repairs or system replacement. These problems tend to worsen over time if not addressed. Trees That Commonly Cause Septic Issues Some tree species are more aggressive root growers than others. Fast growing trees and those that thrive in moist soil are more likely to interfere with septic systems. Problem trees often include: Large oaks planted too close to drain fields. Willows and other water loving species. Fast growing ornamentals with shallow roots. Trees planted before septic system locations were clearly marked. Tree placement plays a major role in whether roots become an issue. How We Evaluate the Risk When homeowners are concerned about tree roots and septic systems, we begin with a careful evaluation of the property. We look at tree species, size, root spread, and proximity to septic components. Our assessment may include: Identifying the location of the septic tank and drain field. Evaluating root growth patterns and soil conditions. Determining whether roots are likely to cause future problems. Recommending management options that protect both the tree and the system. The goal is to find a solution that avoids unnecessary removal while reducing risk. Options for Protecting Your Septic System In many cases, there are ways to manage tree roots without removing healthy trees. Possible solutions include: Root pruning to redirect growth away from septic components. Installing root barriers where appropriate. Adjusting irrigation to reduce excess moisture near the system. Removing problem trees only when risk cannot be managed safely. Each situation is different, and professional guidance helps ensure the right choice is made. Plan Ahead to Avoid Expensive Repairs Tree root problems often develop slowly, which gives homeowners an opportunity to act before major damage occurs. Regular inspections and early intervention can protect your septic system and preserve valuable trees on your property. Get Professional Help With Tree and Septic Concerns If you suspect tree roots may be affecting your septic system, we can help evaluate the situation and recommend practical solutions. Our certified arborists understand how roots grow and how to manage them responsibly. Call Mid Florida Tree Service at (813) 588-0315 to schedule a tree and root evaluation for your septic system.
By Mid Florida Tree Service January 1, 2026
Palm trees are a common sight throughout Riverview, and while they may look low maintenance, proper pruning is essential for their health and safety. Timing matters more with palms than many homeowners realize. Pruning at the wrong time or in the wrong way can weaken the tree, increase disease risk, and even make storm damage more likely. Why Timing Is Important for Palm Pruning Unlike hardwood trees, palms grow from a single growing point at the top of the trunk. Removing healthy fronds too aggressively or at the wrong time can stress the tree and slow its growth. In Florida, palms respond best when pruning is done with a clear understanding of seasonal growth cycles. Proper timing helps: Maintain the tree’s natural strength. Reduce stress during hot or dry periods. Limit exposure to pests and disease. Improve storm resistance. The Best Time of Year to Prune Palms In most cases, palms should be pruned only when necessary and not on a fixed schedule. Dead, broken, or hanging fronds can be removed at any time, especially if they pose a safety concern. Routine pruning is often best done during warmer months when the tree is actively growing. Over pruning during cooler periods or before a growth cycle can leave palms vulnerable and slow to recover. Common Palm Pruning Mistakes Many palm problems we see in Riverview are caused by well intentioned but incorrect pruning. Common mistakes include: Removing green, healthy fronds. Cutting palms into a tight, upright shape. Pruning too frequently. Leaving large stubs instead of clean cuts. Using improper tools that damage the trunk. These practices can weaken the palm and make it more susceptible to disease and nutrient deficiencies. How We Approach Palm Pruning Our certified arborists evaluate each palm individually before pruning. We focus on safety, tree health, and long term appearance. When we prune palms, we remove only what is necessary and leave healthy fronds in place to support growth. Our process may include: Removing dead or damaged fronds. Clearing fronds that interfere with structures or walkways. Identifying signs of nutrient deficiency or disease. Recommending fertilization or soil treatments when needed. This careful approach helps palms remain strong and attractive year round. Keeping Palms Healthy in Riverview Riverview’s climate supports many palm species, but proper care is still essential. Regular inspections, correct pruning, and proper nutrition all play a role in keeping palms healthy and storm ready. If you are unsure whether your palms need pruning, or if they have been over pruned in the past, a professional evaluation can help prevent further damage. Professional Palm Care You Can Trust Palm pruning should never be rushed or done without a plan. We help homeowners make informed decisions that protect their trees and their property. Call Mid Florida Tree Service at (813) 588-0315 to schedule palm tree pruning or a tree health inspection in Riverview.
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