Picture this: The Arizona sky suddenly turns from sunny blue to stormy gray. Winds whip through your neighborhood. Rain pounds the ground. And your once-sturdy tree? It’s now leaning a little too close to your roof for comfort.
That, friends, is monsoon season in Phoenix.
But here’s the good news—you don’t have to wait until a storm turns your landscape into an emergency call. With the right care (and a little planning), your trees can stand tall, strong, and storm-ready.
Let’s walk through some expert, certified-arborist-approved tips to keep your trees safe before, during, and after monsoon season.
The Risky Reality of Monsoon Season
Arizona’s monsoons aren’t shy. Between high winds, heavy rains, and sudden downpours, it’s the ultimate stress test for your landscape.
Here’s what often happens when trees aren’t prepared:
- Uprooted or leaning trees due to soggy soil.
- Heavy branches snapping onto roofs, fences, or driveways.
- Emergency removals cost way more than preventative care.
Every year, local tree companies see a surge in calls after big storms. The trick? Calling before the winds start to howl.
Pro Tip #1: Trim Smart, Not Hard
When it comes to tree trimming, think finesse—not force.
Proper trimming strengthens your tree’s structure.
Thinning allows wind to pass through the canopy (reducing storm stress).
❌ Topping—hacking off big chunks—weakens trees and creates long-term issues.
Think of trimming like a haircut: a few thoughtful snips = polished and healthy. A bad chop = regret for months.
Pro Tip #2: Schedule a Tree Health Assessment
Would you let a doctor skip your annual check-up? Nope. Your trees deserve the same.
That’s where our certified arborist, Iliana, comes in. She knows exactly what to look for:
- Dead or weak limbs are ready to break.
- Disease that weakens a tree’s natural defenses.
- Root or soil issues that could compromise stability.
Spotting problems early is the difference between a quick fix today and a costly removal tomorrow.
Pro Tip #3: Know Your Tree’s Weak Spots
Not all trees are created equal. Each has its own storm personality.
- Palm trees → Need skinning so dead fronds don’t turn into storm projectiles.
- Desert trees (like mesquite or palo verde) → Need thinning so wind can move through them.
- Citrus trees → Need balanced trimming to avoid top-heavy breakage.
A one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work—your trees deserve care tailored to their needs.
Pro Tip #4: Don’t Forget the Roots
Strong roots = stable trees.
In Arizona’s dry heat, shallow watering leads to shallow roots—exactly what you don’t want before monsoon season. Instead:
- Use deep, infrequent watering to encourage stronger root systems.
- Mulch around the base (but not piled against the trunk).
- Avoid overwatering, which makes soil soft and unstable.
Healthy roots keep your trees grounded when the winds kick up.
Emergency Prep: When the Storm Hits
Here’s your quick storm rulebook:
- Don’t try to prune or remove branches yourself during high winds.
- Stay clear of leaning or uprooted trees until a pro can assess.
- Contact a certified arborist for prompt, safe emergency service.
The bottom line: Safety first. Always.
The Takeaway: Monsoon-Ready Starts Now
The best time to monsoon-proof your trees? Yesterday.
The next best time? Today.
A little preparation now means fewer emergencies, less damage, and more peace of mind when Arizona’s skies turn stormy.
Ready to protect your property and keep your trees thriving? Contact Shady Deal Tree Service today for a FREE estimate with our ISA-certified arborist, Iliana. We’ll make sure your trees are storm-strong and summer-ready.
