If you live in Easton, Allentown, or Bethlehem, you know summer here doesn’t mess around.

Hot, sticky days, pop-up thunderstorms that come out of nowhere, and weeks of "maybe it'll rain, maybe it'll just feel like soup." And while you’re cranking the AC, your trees are outside taking the full hit.

Summer is prime time for trees to get stressed, sick, or straight-up dangerous if you’re not paying attention.

If you want your trees to survive the Lehigh Valley summer and keep looking good into fall (without becoming your next insurance claim), here’s exactly what you need to do.

Why Summer Tree Care Matters in Easton, Allentown, and Bethlehem

• Heat Waves: Extended heat dries out soil fast. Even mature trees struggle.

• Drought Stress: Rainfall can be spotty. Deep roots still need consistent moisture.

• Storm Damage: Summer storms can snap limbs, split trunks, and uproot stressed trees.

• Pests & Diseases: Warm, humid conditions are a pest’s playground. Fungus loves it, too.

If you’re not proactive, one good storm in July can finish what winter damage started back in January.

Essential Summer Tree Care Tips for Lehigh Valley Homeowners

1. Deep Watering (Not a Surface Splash)

Easton and Bethlehem homeowners: It’s not enough to spray your trees once a week and call it good.

• Water early in the morning.

• Soak deeply at the root zone, not just the trunk.

• Target 12-18 inches deep into the soil.

• Focus especially on young or recently planted trees.

Tip: In Allentown, where soils can be heavier, water slowly to avoid runoff and get that deep soak.

2. Inspect for Heat and Drought Stress

Summer symptoms hit fast. Look for:

• Wilting or curling leaves

• Brown leaf edges

• Early leaf drop

• Thinning canopy

Catching these signs early in Easton and Bethlehem means you can still save your trees with adjustments in watering and mulch.

3. Mulch Like You Mean It (The Right Way)

Mulch isn't just "yard décor." It's your trees' first line of defense against drought.

• Spread 2-4 inches deep.

• Keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk (no volcanoes).

• Extend mulch to the drip line if possible (the edge of the tree canopy).

Lehigh Valley Tip: Organic mulch like shredded bark works best for our local climate.

4. Trim Only If Necessary

Summer isn't ideal for major pruning, but minor safety trims are a smart move before storms.

• Remove dead or broken limbs.

• Clear branches hanging over driveways, roofs, or sidewalks.

• Light thinning improves airflow, reducing disease risk.

Important: For big trimming jobs in Easton or Allentown, call a pro. Storm-damaged trees need expert cuts to avoid further harm.

5. Watch for Pests and Diseases

Summer pest and disease issues in the Lehigh Valley can get out of hand fast.

Common summer threats include:

• Japanese beetles

• Aphids

• Leaf spot fungi

• Anthracnose

If you see odd leaf spots, sticky residue, or strange insect activity, act quickly. Early treatment is way cheaper than tree removal later.

FAQs: Summer Tree Care for Easton, Allentown, and Bethlehem

How often should I water my trees during a Lehigh Valley summer drought?
Deep water once a week. Twice if temperatures are consistently above 90 degrees.

Can I prune trees in July in Easton or Bethlehem?
Light pruning (for dead or dangerous limbs) is fine. Major pruning should wait until late fall.

How do I know if my tree is stressed from heat in Allentown?
Signs include wilting, leaf scorch, and premature leaf drop. Early detection is key.

What's the best mulch for Easton or Allentown soil?
Organic mulch like shredded hardwood or bark mulch is best. It conserves moisture and protects roots.

Should I fertilize my trees during summer in Bethlehem?
Only if a soil test recommends it. Over-fertilizing stressed trees can do more harm than good.

Local Bonus: Easton, Allentown, and Bethlehem Storm Prep

Summer thunderstorms are no joke around here. Quick storm prep steps for trees:

• Inspect trees after every major storm.

• Remove hanging limbs immediately.

• Call a certified arborist for leaning trees or cracked trunks.

• Protect young trees with staking if necessary.

Waiting until a limb crashes through your roof is … not ideal. Be proactive.

Conclusion: Beat the Summer Heat With Smart Tree Care

Keeping trees healthy in the heat and storms of a Lehigh Valley summer takes real effort. But it's worth it — strong, healthy trees shade your property, boost your curb appeal, and survive those crazy Easton and Allentown thunderstorms like champs.

Remember:

• Water deep, water smart.

• Mulch correctly.

• Stay alert for pests, diseases, and storm damage.

And if you’re ever not sure what your trees are trying to tell you (or you'd just rather stay in the AC and let the pros handle it) — we’re here.

Need expert help protecting your trees this summer?
Visit Precision Tree Experts to schedule a consultation today!