In July continue control and cutback of new growth. At this time of year trees should be growing quite quickly. Thin out interior growth if you are growing branches out for length, or cut back the tips if you want to increase ramification and get more smaller branches. Maples and other trees that have been defoliated will be sending out a new flush of growth that either needs to be pinched or wired to harmonize it with the final design of the tree. Junipers should be putting on a lot of growth, healthy ones will try to send out whips; if you want a fatter trunk or longer branch let it run, if you want to increase the density of branches pinch it off after it grows out about an inch.

If you have left fertilizer off your pines after decandling (removal of fertilizer is done after decandling to keep needle length shorter on the new growth) then now, about 5-6 weeks after decandling, is the time to start fertilizing again.

Keep an eye on trees for parasites and other problems. With fast growing plants you can get aphid or scale infestations on a large scale, watch for ants on the tree as this usually indicates that there is some sort of sapsucking insect.

Watering during July can be a challenge, if the weather is cool be careful not to water too frequently, leaving the tree in a soggy mess. If the weather is hot and sunny then make sure the trees have enough water and the soil doesn’t dry out completely between waterings. Quit your job and hang around in the yard to make sure!