Is Your Landscape Ready for Drought Season?
Southwest Florida’s dry season brings weeks of little rainfall, rising temperatures, and increased stress on trees. While native species can handle these conditions, landscape trees—especially young or non-native varieties—often struggle.
Without proper care, trees may show wilting leaves, cracked bark, and premature leaf drop. Over time, dehydration weakens trees, making them more susceptible to pests, disease, and breakage.
At Joshua Tree Inc., we specialize in helping homeowners protect their trees year-round. Follow these expert tips to keep your landscape healthy and thriving during the driest months.
1. Watering Smarter, Not Harder
Watering incorrectly can cause just as much harm as underwatering. Here’s how to help your trees thrive without wasting water:
- Water deeply, not frequently – A slow, deep soak encourages strong root growth and improves drought resistance.
- Prioritize young trees – Newly planted trees need extra attention as their roots develop.
- Water in the morning or evening – This reduces evaporation and maximizes moisture absorption.
- Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses – These systems deliver steady moisture directly to the root zone.
Tip: If your tree’s leaves are wilting, curling, or dropping prematurely, it may be signaling water stress.
2. Mulch to Lock in MoistureProtProte
Mulching is one of the most effective ways to conserve soil moisture and regulate temperature during the dry season.
- Use organic mulch (wood chips, bark, or pine needles) to retain moisture naturally.
- Apply a 2- to 4-inch layer around the base of your tree, but keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.
- Replenish mulch as needed to maintain moisture retention.
A well-mulched tree requires less frequent watering and stays healthier in extreme temperatures.
3. Watch for Signs of Drought Stress
Even with proper care, trees may struggle in prolonged drought conditions. Warning signs include:
- Wilting, curling, or browning leaves
- Excessive leaf drop outside of normal shedding seasons
- Bark cracking or peeling
- Increased insect activity (pests often attack weakened trees)
Catching these signs early can prevent long-term damage and keep your landscape in peak condition.
4. Get a Professional Tree Health Assessment
Drought stress weakens trees, making them prone to disease and storm damage. That’s why regular expert evaluations are crucial.
At Joshua Tree Inc., we offer free tree health assessments to evaluate:
✔️ Soil moisture and root health
✔️ Signs of pest infestations or disease
✔️ Structural weaknesses that could lead to breakage
Schedule a free consultation today to ensure your trees remain healthy and resilient.
5. Strengthen Trees with Proper Fertilization
Drought conditions strip essential nutrients from the soil, making fertilization key to long-term resilience.
- Choose slow-release fertilizers for steady nutrient absorption.
- Apply at the right time—late winter to early spring—to support healthy growth.
- Avoid over-fertilizing, as excess nutrients can lead to weak, fast-growing branches.
Joshua Tree Inc. provides customized fertilization plans based on Southwest Florida’s unique soil conditions.
Protect Your Trees This Dry Season
Drought season doesn’t have to mean struggling trees. With proper watering, mulching, fertilization, and expert care, your landscape can remain healthy and resilient all year long.
📞 Call Joshua Tree Inc. at (239) 888-6817 today to schedule your free tree health assessment.