How Do I Get My Trees Ready for Monsoon Season?
A pre-monsoon tree checklist for East Valley homeowners, from Family Tree Trimming in Apache Junction. Call or text (480) 340-7907.
Quick answer: The best way to get trees ready for monsoon season is to have dense canopies thinned and dead or weak branches removed in spring, water deeply so roots grow down instead of staying shallow, and have any leaning, cracked or damaged tree looked at before the storms start. Do not top trees, which leads to weak regrowth that breaks more easily.
Arizona's monsoon season officially runs June 15 to September 30, and every year storms bring down branches and whole trees across the East Valley. A little preparation in spring makes a big difference. Here is a checklist for homeowners in Apache Junction, Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, Queen Creek and San Tan Valley.
1. Thin dense canopies
A thick canopy catches wind like a sail. Selective thinning removes some interior branches so wind can pass through. Mesquite, sissoo, ash and other fast growers are common candidates. Thinning is not topping: cutting the top off a tree causes clusters of weak new growth that break easily. Our FAQ covers the best time to plant trees in Arizona, and our services page covers tree trimming.
2. Remove dead, broken and weak branches
Dead branches are the first to come down in a storm. Also look for branches with cracks, splits or tight V-shaped unions.
3. Clear branches away from the house
Limbs over the roof, against walls, over the pool or near the service line to the house are worth shortening before storm season.
4. Water deeply
Deep, less frequent watering grows deeper roots that anchor the tree. Shallow daily watering does the opposite. See how often to water trees in the East Valley.
5. Look for warning signs
- A tree leaning more than it used to, or soil heaving up on one side
- Cracks in the trunk or where large limbs meet
- Mushrooms, decay or hollow spots at the base
- Large dead sections of the canopy
- Roots damaged by construction or trenching
A tree with serious problems may be a candidate for removal. Large trees near a house can be removed safely by a professional. See tree removal.
6. Palms
Remove dead fronds and seed pods, but avoid over-trimming green fronds, which a palm needs.
7. Secure the yard
Stake young trees lightly if needed, and remove stakes once the tree can stand alone. Put away loose items that could blow into trees or windows.
After a storm
Stay away from downed power lines and call the utility. Do not climb into a damaged tree or cut a limb under tension. Take photos, then call a tree service to clean up and assess what can be saved. Read how to choose a tree service in the East Valley.
Monsoon tree work across the East Valley
Family Tree Trimming trims and removes trees in Mesa, Gilbert, Queen Creek, Apache Junction and nearby, and cleans up after the job.
Common questions
When should trees be trimmed before monsoon?
Spring, before the heat of summer and the start of monsoon season, is a common time for thinning.
Does thinning guarantee a tree will not fall?
No. Thinning lowers wind load, but no tree is storm-proof. Healthy roots and regular care help a lot.
How do I get a quote for monsoon tree trimming?
Call or text (480) 340-7907 or send photos of the trees.
Get your trees monsoon-ready
Family Tree Trimming LLC is owned and run by Cody in Apache Junction, handling tree trimming, tree removal, irrigation, landscaping and lawn care across Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, Queen Creek, San Tan Valley, Gold Canyon, Fountain Hills and the East Valley. Call or text (480) 340-7907 or use the contact page for a quote.
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