You aren’t the only one who is vulnerable to damage from the sun’s rays. All of the plants in your landscaping, including your trees, can also suffer from sunburns. The key to preventing damage caused by the sun isn’t slathering on sunscreen but rather working with a certified arborist on proper tree care and pruning. Here is what you need to know about trees and sunburn.
How Sunburn Damages Trees
Sunburn occurs in trees after excessive heat—usually caused by direct sunlight—triggers dehydration. All parts of the tree are vulnerable to sunburn. Leaves, fruits, flowers, and even the bark may develop burns. When leaves become burned, you may notice yellow or brown spots, or the leaves may look like they have a glaze on them that has a silvery or reddish hue. Leaves affected by sunburns in this way eventually die. Fruit and flowers will similarly develop spots and then die.
On the bark, burns are particularly serious. Bark that is burned first turns red-brown before it begins to crack and peel from dehydration. The cracks make the tree vulnerable to decay and infestations of wood-boring insects. Trees of any age can develop sunburns, but young trees that have not yet developed thick bark are especially susceptible to damage.
How Sunburn Can Be Prevented
Ensuring that trees receive an adequate amount of water will keep them hydrated, which will help them withstand excessive sun exposure. Allowing a certified arborist to prune your trees will also help. It is also important to choose the right trees for the right locations. Trees that are suited for cool environments should not be placed in full sun in a hot climate.
Ideally, young trees should have the shade of old trees to protect them. In some cases, painting a tree trunk with white latex paint is necessary to keep the tree cooler.
Complete Landscaping and our team of certified landscaping contractors and arborists understand the climate in Tucson and what steps are needed to keep your trees healthy. Contact our landscaping company in Tucson today for more information about our services by calling (520) 323-8918.