republic-tree-service

Did the August Heat Hurt Your Trees?

Tue, 01 Sep 2026 16:44:46 GMT

August in San Antonio can be tough on trees. After months of extreme heat, fluctuating rainfall, heavy storms, flooding, and even tornadoes, our trees can be under significant stress.

The effects aren't always obvious. A tree may look healthy from the street while its roots, limbs, or overall structure are struggling beneath the surface.

As we move through the hottest part of the summer, now is a good time to take a closer look at your trees and address problems before they become hazards.

Beat the Heat – 7 Warning Signs to Watch For

Extreme summer heat can be hard on all of us, and our trees are no exception. After a long, hot summer, it's normal to see some changes in your trees. The key is knowing what is normal and what may be a sign that your tree needs a little attention.

1. Brown or Curling Leaves

A few brown leaves during extreme heat aren't necessarily cause for alarm. But if you notice widespread browning, curling, or leaves dropping much earlier than expected, your tree may be telling you it's under stress.

2. A Thinning Canopy

Take a look up into the tree. Does the canopy look noticeably thinner than it did earlier this year? A thinning canopy can be a sign that a tree is struggling with heat, drought, root problems, or another underlying issue.

3. Dead or Bare Branches

Dead branches are more than just an eyesore. As they dry out, they become brittle and can break during our frequent summer thunderstorms and high winds. It's a good idea to have larger dead limbs addressed before they become a problem.

4. Wilting Leaves

Trees can temporarily wilt during the hottest part of the day, but persistent wilting can indicate that the tree isn't getting enough usable moisture or that its roots are having trouble absorbing it.

5. Cracks in Limbs or the Trunk

When you're walking around your property, take a minute to look at the larger limbs and trunk. Cracks, splits, or areas where the bark is separating can indicate a structural weakness that deserves a closer look.

6. Mushrooms or Fungal Growth Near the Base

Seeing mushrooms after our recent rains isn't necessarily a problem by itself. However, fungal growth around the base of a tree, particularly when combined with other signs of decline, can sometimes indicate decay in the roots or trunk.

7. A Tree That Has Started Leaning

If a tree has recently developed a noticeable lean—especially after heavy rain, flooding, or strong winds—it's worth having it checked. Saturated soil can sometimes affect a tree's stability, particularly when combined with a compromised root system.

The good news is that spotting a problem early often gives you more options. If something about a tree doesn't look quite right, it's better to ask questions now than wait for the next storm to answer them for you.

My tree has brown leaves. Is it dying?

Not necessarily.

Brown leaves in August can be caused by several different factors, including extreme heat, drought stress, root problems, insects, disease, or previous storm damage.

The important thing is to look at the entire tree rather than focusing on one symptom.

Ask yourself:

Is the browning happening throughout the entire canopy?
Are only certain branches affected?
Did the problem appear suddenly?
Has the tree received adequate water?
Has the tree recently experienced storm or construction damage?
Are there dead branches or other signs of decline?

Sometimes brown leaves are simply the tree's response to extreme environmental conditions. Other times, they can be an early warning sign of a more serious problem.

When in doubt, have the tree inspected . Finding the cause early can make a big difference in whether a tree can be preserved.

Schedule Your Summer Tree Inspection

Our goal isn't simply to remove trees—we want to help you keep the healthy ones healthy and identify potential problems before they become dangerous.

Your trees have been through a lot this year — extreme heat, heavy rain, flooding, severe storms, and high winds can all take their toll.

A professional inspection can identify problems that aren't always visible from the ground and help determine what your trees need to stay healthy and safe.

Schedule Your Summer Tree Inspection Today

Phone: 210-480-TREE (8733)

Website: www.republictreeservice.com

ISA Certified Arborist | Fully Insured | Family Owned & Operated | Serving San Antonio & Surrounding Areas

Thank You for Trusting Republic Tree Service

Whether you need routine pruning, hazardous tree removal, stump grinding, or emergency storm response, our team is here to help.

Thank you for trusting Republic Tree Service with your trees. We appreciate the opportunity to serve our community and look forward to helping keep your property safe and beautiful for years to come.

Proudly serving San Antonio, Boerne, Fair Oaks Ranch, Helotes, Garden Ridge, Alamo Heights, Stone Oak, Shavano Park, Kendall County, Bexar County, Comal County, Guadalupe County, and many other surrounding communities.

Keep Your Trees Healthy. Keep Your Property Safe.

Keep Your Landscape Looking Its Best.

Welcome to the Republic Tree Service Team: Meet Our New Office Manager – Desiree Hernandez

How to Properly Water Your Trees During San Antonio's Heat

We've all heard that our trees need water during hot weather, but how you water can be just as important as how much you water.

Here are a few simple tips that can make a difference:

Water slowly and deeply. Give the water time to soak into the soil rather than running off the surface.
Water around the drip line. This is the area beneath the outer portion of the canopy where many of the tree's absorbing roots are located.
Don't forget established trees. Large, mature trees may be able to withstand dry periods better than young trees, but they can still become stressed during prolonged heat and drought.
Check the soil before watering. We've had significant rainfall in the area, so don't assume your trees need more water simply because it's hot. Feel the soil first.
Give your trees some mulch. A good layer of mulch helps hold moisture in the soil and keeps the root zone cooler. Just remember to keep mulch away from the trunk.
Avoid the "volcano." Piling mulch or constantly watering directly against the trunk isn't good for the tree. Think wide and deep rather than right at the base.

A little attention to watering now can go a long way toward helping your trees make it through the hottest part of the year.

Dead & Dangerous Branches

What Should You Remove Before the Next Texas Storm?

We can't control when the next Texas storm rolls through, but we can take a few steps to make our properties safer before it does.

When you're outside, take a look at the trees around your home and keep an eye out for:

Large dead limbs that could fall without warning.
Broken or hanging branches left behind by a previous storm.
Branches rubbing against each other, which can create wounds and weak points over time.
Large limbs over your roof, driveway, or outdoor living areas where a failure could cause significant damage.
Branches growing into or near power lines. These should always be handled with extreme caution and by qualified professionals.
Trees that have recently started leaning or appear to have shifted following heavy rain or strong winds.

You don't have to be an arborist to notice when something doesn't look right.

If you see something that concerns you, take a picture, give us a call , and let us help you determine whether it needs attention.

Prepare Your Trees for Fall

5 Things San Antonio Homeowners Should Do Now

Now is a good time to get a jump on fall tree care. A little preparation now can save you headaches later.

1. Take a Walk Around Your Property

Spend a few minutes looking at your trees from different angles. Look up into the canopy and check for dead, broken, or hanging branches.

2. Check for Storm Damage

Recent storms may have caused damage that isn't immediately obvious from the ground. Small cracks can become bigger problems when the next storm arrives.

3. Pay Attention to Trees Near Your Home

Large trees provide wonderful shade, but limbs over roofs, driveways, patios, and play areas deserve particular attention.

4. Keep an Eye on Your Tree's Overall Health

Changes in leaf color, canopy density, growth, or the condition of the trunk can all provide clues about how your tree is doing.

5. Take Care of Problems Before They Become Emergencies

If you've been meaning to have a tree pruned, inspected, or removed, don't wait until a storm forces the issue. Taking care of routine work ahead of time is almost always easier than dealing with an emergency afterward.

Our goal isn't simply to remove trees—we want to help you keep the healthy ones healthy and identify potential problems before they become dangerous.

Summer Is Here – Are Your Trees Ready?

Mon, 27 Jul 2026 10:45:03 GMT

As South Texas continues to experience dramatic weather changes — from torrential rains, flooding, severe storms, and even tornadoes to periods of extreme summer heat — our trees are being challenged in ways that are not always immediately visible.

These rapid changes in weather can create hidden stresses, from weakened root systems and storm damage to structural issues that may not become apparent until a branch fails or a tree becomes hazardous.

While recent rainfall has helped replenish our landscapes, saturated soils, high winds, and severe weather can create new risks for trees. At the same time, as South Texas settles into another hot summer, extreme temperatures, drought stress, and summer storms can place significant strain on trees, making them more vulnerable to disease, insects, root issues, and structural problems .

A tree that appears healthy today may still have hidden weaknesses caused by storm damage, excess moisture, or environmental stress. Regular inspections and proactive care can help identify problems before they become safety hazards.

A little preventative care now can help protect your trees, your property, and your investment.

Beat the Heat – How Extreme Temperatures Affect Your Tree

Healthy trees provide shade, beauty, and value to your property, but summer heat can be challenging for even mature, established trees.

When temperatures rise and rainfall is limited, trees can experience stress that may not always be immediately visible. Over time, heat and drought stress can weaken trees and increase the likelihood of branch failure.

Here are some ways to help your trees through the Texas summer:

�� Water Deeply, Not Frequently

A slow, deep watering encourages stronger root growth and helps trees better withstand heat and drought conditions. Watering at the drip line of the tree is usually more effective than watering near the trunk.

�� Maintain Mulch

A 2–4 inch layer of mulch around the tree helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and protect tree roots. Remember to keep mulch away from direct contact with the trunk.

�� Watch for Signs of Stress

Keep an eye out for:

Wilting or curling leaves
Early leaf drop
Thinning canopies
Dead branches
Cracks in limbs or trunks

⛈ Inspect After Summer Storms

Summer storms can leave behind damaged or weakened branches that may not fail immediately. Hanging limbs, cracked branches, and storm-damaged trees can become dangerous hazards if not addressed.

My tree still has green leaves. How can I tell if it is becoming hazardous?

A tree can appear healthy on the outside while still developing serious structural problems. Healthy foliage does not always mean a tree is safe.

Some warning signs of potential hazards include:

Large dead or hanging branches
Cracks in major limbs or the trunk
Mushrooms or fungal growth near the base of the tree
Cavities or areas of decay
Sudden leaning or changes in the tree’s structure
Branches growing toward your home or power lines

If you have concerns about a tree on your property, a professional inspection can help identify problems before they become emergencies.

Schedule Your Summer Tree Inspection

Summer heat, drought stress, and severe weather can reveal hidden tree problems before they become costly emergencies.

A proactive tree inspection can help identify:

✓ Weak or hazardous limbs

✓ Structural concerns

✓ Signs of disease or stress

✓ Trees needing pruning or corrective care

Don’t wait until a branch falls or a storm creates damage. Let our team help you keep your property safe and your trees healthy.

Schedule Your Summer Tree Inspection Today

Phone: 210-480-TREE (8733)

Website: www.republictreeservice.com

ISA Certified Arborist | Fully Insured | Family Owned & Operated | Serving San Antonio & Surrounding Areas

Thank You for Trusting Republic Tree Service

Whether you need routine pruning, hazardous tree removal, stump grinding, or emergency storm response, our team is here to help.

Thank you for trusting Republic Tree Service with your trees. We appreciate the opportunity to serve our community and look forward to helping keep your property safe and beautiful for years to come.

Keep Your Trees Healthy. Keep Your Property Safe.

Keep Your Landscape Looking Its Best.

A Special Announcement From Republic Tree Service: Celebrating Larry Snody’s Years of Service

Heavy Rains Lately: Is Your Tree Stable?

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 18:56:02 GMT

How Drought Stress and Recent Heavy Rainfall Can Impact Tree Stability This Summer

Summer in Texas brings more than just heat; recent heavy rains have also created challenges for trees across the region. While rain is generally beneficial, the combination of previous dry conditions and sudden soil saturation can affect tree stability in ways that are not always immediately visible.

A tree’s overall health before and during heavy rainfall plays a significant role in how well it handles saturated soils and any accompanying wind. Trees that entered the rainy period already stressed from drought or other factors are more likely to develop issues such as root instability, leaning, or branch failure.

Why Tree Health Matters More Than You Think After Heavy Rains

Many trees in Texas experienced drought stress earlier in the season. When heavy rains arrive, the sudden saturation of soil around already-weakened root systems can reduce stability. Roots that were limited by dry conditions may not anchor as firmly once the soil becomes soft and waterlogged.

Unlike lawns, trees often reveal stress gradually. Signs that were present before the rains can become more problematic afterward, especially if the soil remains wet for extended periods.

Common Signs of Drought Stress (Relevant After Heavy Rains)

Wilting, curling, or drooping leaves
Browning leaf edges
Premature leaf drop
Sparse or thinning canopy
Dead twigs and branches throughout the tree
Slow growth or reduced vigor
Increased insect or disease pressure

These symptoms can indicate a tree that was already compromised. When followed by heavy rainfall and saturated soil, the risk of structural issues increases because weakened roots have less ability to hold the tree upright in soft ground.

How Drought Stress Increases Risks from Heavy Rains

Drought-stressed trees often have reduced root mass and lower energy reserves. When heavy rain saturates the soil:

Soil around the roots loses its firmness, making it easier for trees to lean or shift.
Brittle branches from prior stress are more likely to break under added weight or wind.
Moisture fluctuations (wet soil followed by drying) can worsen existing cracks or decay.
Root systems that were already shallow or limited have greater difficulty regaining stability.

Even without strong winds, saturated soil combined with a compromised root system can lead to failure. A period of heavy rain can therefore expose problems that developed during drier months.

Managing Proper Watering After Heavy Rains

One of the most common questions after heavy rainfall is whether additional watering is needed. In many cases, the answer is to wait.

Heavy rains can leave soil saturated for days or even weeks, depending on soil type and drainage. Adding more water during this time can deprive roots of oxygen and raise the risk of root rot and fungal problems. Clay-heavy soils common in parts of Texas drain especially slowly.

Practical Guidelines for Watering After Heavy Rain

Check soil moisture before watering. Insert a finger, screwdriver, or soil moisture meter about 2–4 inches deep. If the soil still feels moist, wait.
Allow the top several inches of soil to dry out between watering cycles. This is especially important after prolonged or repeated heavy rain.
Newly planted trees need more consistent moisture than established trees, but even they should not be watered if the soil is already saturated.
During hot, dry periods between rain events, resume deep watering to encourage roots to grow downward. Water slowly and thoroughly rather than lightly and often.
Mulch helps moderate soil moisture. A 2–4 inch layer around the root zone (kept several inches away from the trunk) reduces rapid drying and protects roots from extreme swings between wet and dry conditions.
Avoid watering if rain is forecast within the next several days.

The goal is to maintain relatively consistent soil moisture without extremes. Both prolonged drought and prolonged saturation can stress trees; managing the transition between the two is key to long-term stability.

Post-Heavy Rain Tree Inspection Checklist

After periods of heavy rain, it is useful to walk your property and note any changes in your trees.

Look for:

New or increased leaning, or soil mounding or cracking around the base of the trunk (signs of root movement)
Exposed roots or erosion around the root collar
Dead, hanging, or broken branches
Limbs that now extend over structures
Cracks or splits in the trunk or major limbs that appear to have worsened
Signs of decay, fungal growth, or oozing sap (wet conditions can accelerate these issues)
Trees that were already showing stress before the rains and now appear more unstable

Noting these observations early allows you to prioritize which trees may need closer attention.

Protecting Trees After Recent Heavy Rains

Heavy rainfall events can reveal or accelerate underlying tree issues, particularly in trees that were already stressed. Regular observation combined with appropriate watering practices helps reduce the chance of unexpected failure.

If you notice significant leaning, widespread branch dieback, or other concerning changes after the recent rains, consulting a certified arborist can provide a clearer picture of the tree’s condition and stability. Professional assessments are especially helpful when safety or property risk is involved.

For questions about tree care or to schedule an evaluation, contact Republic Tree Service at (210) 480-TREE .

Healthy trees are better able to handle Texas weather extremes — both drought and heavy rain.

Pre-Storm Season Tree Care Update

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 18:43:32 GMT

Important Information for San Antonio Homeowners

Storm season is approaching here in San Antonio, and with it comes the potential for strong winds, heavy rain, and unexpected tree damage. What many homeowners don’t realize is that most tree-related storm damage is preventable with proper inspection and maintenance ahead of time.

This month we’re focusing on one of the most important steps you can take to protect your home:

The Importance of Tree Inspections Before Storm Season

A simple inspection now can help you avoid major damage, costly repairs, and dangerous situations later. Storm damage often happens without warning—but the risks usually don’t. A quick tree inspection now can help prevent costly damage and give you peace of mind before the next storm hits.

Why Tree Inspections Matter Before Storm Season

Trees may look strong and healthy on the outside, but hidden issues like weak limbs, internal decay, or structural instability can turn them into serious hazards during a storm.

High winds and saturated ground can quickly cause compromised trees to:

Lose large limbs
Split or crack
Uproot entirely
Fall onto homes, vehicles, or power lines

The Reality

Most emergency tree removals after storms happen because of issues that were already present—but went unnoticed.

A professional inspection helps identify these risks before they become emergencies.

Don’t Wait Until After the Storm

The best time to inspect your trees is before severe weather hits—not after damage is already done.

What A Professi onal Tree Inspection Looks For

During a tree inspection, trained professionals evaluate several key factors that impact safety and stability:

Structural Concerns

Cracks in the trunk or major limbs
Weak branch attachments
Trees leaning or shifting

Health Issues

Signs of disease or decay
Dead or dying limbs
Poor canopy health

Environmental Risks

Trees growing too close to structures
Limbs hanging over roofs or driveways
Root instability due to soil conditions

These issues may not always be obvious, but they can significantly increase the risk of storm damage.

Quick Warning Signs Homeowners Should Never Ignore

Take a quick look around your property.

If you notice any of the following, it’s time for an inspection:

Large dead branches hanging overhead
Trees leaning more than usual
Cracks in the trunk or major limbs
Hollow or soft areas in the tree
Limbs extending over your home or power lines

If you see any of these warning signs, it’s best to act now before a storm turns them into a serious problem.

How Tree Inspections Help Prevent Damage

A professional inspection allows you to take proactive steps such as:

Removing weak or dangerous limbs
Trimming overgrown branches
Identifying trees that may need removal
Strengthening the overall health of your landscape

This not only protects your home but can also save you thousands in potential repair costs.

Limited Time Pre-Storm Inspe ction Offer

To help homeowners prepare for storm season, we’re currently offering a:

FREE Pre-Storm Tree Health & Risk Evaluation through the end of April 2026

Our team will assess your trees and identify:

Potential storm hazards
Weak or dangerous limbs
Trees at risk of falling or failure
Recommended trimming or removal solutions

Schedule Your Tree Inspection Today!

Keep your trees healthy, your property safe, and your landscape looking its best.

Book before the end of April 2026 to get a Free Pre-Storm Tree Health & Risk Evaluation.

Republic Tree Service
Call Today: (210) 899-1039

Proudly Serving: San Antonio & the Hill Country, Helotes, Alamo Heights , Stone Oak, Boerne , Shavano Park, Kendell, Comal, Guadalupe & Kerr Counties and Surrounding Communities.

republic-tree-service

Did the August Heat Hurt Your Trees?

Beat the Heat – 7 Warning Signs to Watch For

My tree has brown leaves. Is it dying?

Schedule Your Summer Tree Inspection

Schedule Your Summer Tree Inspection Today

Thank You for Trusting Republic Tree Service

Welcome to the Republic Tree Service Team: Meet Our New Office Manager – Desiree Hernandez ﻿

How to Properly Water Your Trees During San Antonio's Heat

Dead & Dangerous Branches

Prepare Your Trees for Fall

Summer Is Here – Are Your Trees Ready?

Beat the Heat – How Extreme Temperatures Affect Your Tree

�� Water Deeply, Not Frequently

�� Maintain Mulch

�� Watch for Signs of Stress

⛈ Inspect After Summer Storms

My tree still has green leaves. How can I tell if it is becoming hazardous?

Schedule Your Summer Tree Inspection

Schedule Your Summer Tree Inspection Today

Thank You for Trusting Republic Tree Service

A Special Announcement From Republic Tree Service: Celebrating Larry Snody’s Years of Service ﻿

Heavy Rains Lately: Is Your Tree Stable?

How Drought Stress and Recent Heavy Rainfall Can Impact Tree Stability This Summer

How Drought Stress Increases Risks from Heavy Rains

Managing Proper Watering After Heavy Rains

Practical Guidelines for Watering After Heavy Rain

﻿

Post-Heavy Rain Tree Inspection Checklist

Protecting Trees After Recent Heavy Rains

Pre-Storm Season Tree Care Update

Important Information for San Antonio Homeowners

Why Tree Inspections Matter Before Storm Season

What A Professi onal Tree Inspection Looks For

Quick Warning Signs Homeowners Should Never Ignore

How Tree Inspections Help Prevent Damage

Limited Time Pre-Storm Inspe ction Offer

Welcome to the Republic Tree Service Team: Meet Our New Office Manager – Desiree Hernandez

A Special Announcement From Republic Tree Service: Celebrating Larry Snody’s Years of Service