How to Prepare Your Trees for a Hot Okanagan September
Millar Tree Care in action—helping Okanagan trees stay healthy and resilient through the late-summer heat.
It’s that time of year again—the sun is still blazing, patios are packed, and your trees are quietly enduring the heat. While many folks think of tree care as a spring or fall task, late summer is a critical time to give your trees some TLC, especially in the South Okanagan where September often feels like an extension of July and August.
At Millar Tree Care, we know the unique challenges our local climate throws at your landscape. So, before you swap your shorts for sweaters (whenever that finally happens), here are some expert tips to help prepare your trees for a hot Okanagan September—and beyond.
1. Assess Summer Stress Damage
By late August, trees have been through a lot: heat waves, drought conditions, strong winds, and a summer storm or two. Take a walk around your property and look for signs of stress:
Wilting or browning leaves
Early leaf drop
Cracked or peeling bark
Dead branches (especially in the crown)
Catching these signs early allows you to act before small issues turn into costly removals.
2. Water Deeply—But Wisely
September often brings the illusion that summer is winding down, but in the South Okanagan, the soil can remain bone-dry well into fall. Trees need consistent deep watering to recover from summer heat and prepare for winter dormancy.
Pro Tip: Water slowly and deeply at the root zone (not the trunk). Aim for early morning or late evening to reduce evaporation.
Avoid: Frequent, shallow watering—it encourages weak surface roots and leaves trees vulnerable in drought conditions.
3. Mulch Magic: Your Tree’s Best Friend
If you haven’t mulched yet, now’s the time. A 2-4-inch layer of organic mulch (wood chips, bark, or composted leaves) around the base of your trees helps:
Retain soil moisture
Regulate soil temperature
Suppress weeds
Improve soil health as it breaks down
Remember: Keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot and pest issues.
4. Prune for Health and Safety
September is an excellent time to assess which limbs need attention before the fall storms hit. Removing dead, damaged, or poorly-placed branches can:
Reduce the risk of breakage
Improve airflow and sun exposure
Encourage healthy growth patterns
While heavy pruning is best done in the dormant season, light structural pruning and hazard limb removal can and should be done now for safety.
Not sure what’s safe to prune? Our SkilledTradesBC-certified arborists can assess and handle the tricky cuts for you.
Keep your trees healthy, safe, and beautiful year-round with expert pruning.
5. Prepare for Pests (and Defend Against Disease)
Heat-stressed trees are more vulnerable to pests and diseases. Watch out for:
Bark beetles
Aphids
Powdery mildew
Cankers or fungal growth
If you notice insect infestations or suspect disease, early treatment is key. Integrated pest management (IPM) strategies are often the most effective and environmentally friendly.
6. Tree Support Systems: Stake, Cable, or Brace?
Young trees may need staking to help them establish strong root systems, while mature trees with structural issues could benefit from cabling or bracing to prevent storm damage.
If you’re not sure whether your tree needs support—or how to do it without causing harm—give us a call. We’ll ensure your trees are protected while promoting natural growth.
7. Plan Ahead: Book Fall Services Early
The best tree care is proactive, not reactive. September is a busy time for arborists, so if you’re thinking about:
Full tree inspections
Structural pruning
Large-scale removals
Winter storm prep
…it’s smart to book ahead. Fall tree care slots fill up fast, and you don’t want to be left waiting if a storm blows through.
Let’s Get Your Trees Ready for What’s Next
At MTC, we’re passionate about keeping trees in the Okanagan and Similkameen healthy, safe, and beautiful—year-round. Whether you need a quick check-up, expert pruning, or advice on a larger project, our team is here to help.
We offer complimentary quotes and honest advice tailored to your property’s unique needs.
Call us today at (250) 809-5779 or visit www.millartreecare.com/contact to schedule a consultation.
Don’t wait until it’s too late—let’s work together to protect your trees and keep your landscape thriving through September and beyond!