If you have a tree or two in your garden, you might have noticed they’ve been looking a little stressed this year — and there’s a good reason for that. According to the Environment Agency, England received just 65% of its average rainfall between March and May 2026, with temperatures in late May hitting a scorching 35.1°C — values the EA described as “more typical of midsummer than late spring.” For trees across Putney and South West London, that kind of prolonged heat and drought can cause real damage, much of which isn’t immediately obvious to the untrained eye.
Drought stress in trees shows up in a number of ways. You might notice leaves curling, yellowing, or dropping earlier than expected. Bark can crack, and whole branches may start to die back as the tree prioritises survival over growth. The problem is that by the time these signs appear clearly, the tree has often been struggling for weeks — and some of the damage can be permanent if nothing is done.
Summer is actually one of the best times to have your trees assessed by a qualified tree surgeon. A professional can spot early signs of drought stress, crown die-back, or disease that a homeowner might easily miss. They can also advise on whether any branches have become structurally weak — which matters more than ever after a dry, hot spell that can leave wood more brittle than usual. Catching problems early is almost always cheaper and less disruptive than dealing with a fallen branch or a tree that’s beyond saving.
There’s also the question of timing for any pruning or crown reduction work. Summer pruning, done correctly, can actually help a stressed tree by reducing the water demand on its root system — but it needs to be done carefully and by someone who knows what they’re doing. Badly timed or overly aggressive pruning on an already-stressed tree can make things significantly worse.
If you’re concerned about any of the trees on your Putney or South West London property — or if it’s simply been a while since they were last looked at — now is a sensible time to get a professional opinion. The team at Putney Tree Surgeons are local experts with years of experience across the area, and they can give you straightforward advice on what your trees need. Visit https://putneytreesurgeons.co.uk/news/ to find out more or get in touch.
