It’s Heating Up! How to Protect Your Large Trees and Shrubs

As temperatures start to climb across the San Fernando and Santa Clarita Valleys, your landscape—especially large trees and mature shrubs—needs extra care to stay healthy and beautiful. At SoCal Ponds, we’re not just about water features—we’re about full ecosystem health, and that includes your plants. Knowing how to protect trees from heat is essential for maintaining their vitality.

Why Heat Stress is a Problem

Prolonged heat can dry out soil, stress root systems, and leave trees vulnerable to pests and disease. In valleys like ours, hot, dry winds and high UV exposure can push your landscape past its limits if it’s not properly maintained. Learning how to protect trees from heat will combat these issues effectively.

5 Ways to Protect Your Trees and Shrubs This Summer

1. Deep Watering

Shallow watering just won’t cut it. Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation system to deliver water slowly and deeply—especially early in the morning or after sunset. Aim to water trees at the drip line, not just at the base. If you know the heat is coming, it is best to start the deep watering process days in advance. It will take many days for water to make it to the deeper roots... the roots the trees need to really drink from.

2. Mulch It Up

Apply 2–4 inches of organic mulch around the base of your trees and shrubs (but not right up against the trunk). Mulch helps the soil retain moisture, regulates soil temperature, and improves overall root health, which is crucial when learning how to protect trees from heat.

3. Prune Smart

Avoid heavy pruning during peak summer heat. Instead, remove only dead or damaged limbs to reduce plant stress. Pruning can stimulate new growth, which may be too tender to survive the heat. Keeping only the necessary branches on the trees and shrubs allows the plants to be more efficient and therefore require less water and nutrients.

4. Shade Protection (When Needed)

For younger or newly planted trees and shrubs, consider temporary shade cloths during heatwaves. This can help reduce sunburn and slow moisture loss. Understanding how to protect trees from heat with shade can make a significant difference.

5. Watch for Signs of Stress

Wilting leaves, scorched edges, early leaf drop, and dieback can all be signs of heat stress. If you notice these symptoms, increase watering and inspect for pest activity.

Bonus Tip: Integrate Water Features

A properly designed pond or stream can create microclimates that help regulate surrounding temperatures and increase humidity. At SoCal Ponds, we specialize in designing naturalistic water features that support the health of your entire landscape.

Need Help?

If you're in the San Fernando or Santa Clarita Valley and want a custom care plan for your trees, shrubs, and pond ecosystem, reach out to SoCal Ponds today. We’ll help your landscape beat the heat—beautifully.