Summer storms can bring high winds, heavy rain, and lightning, all of which can cause significant damage to trees and shrubs. After a storm, it's crucial to assess the damage promptly and take appropriate actions to ensure the safety and health of your landscape. Here is a guide on how to assess and address tree damage after summer storms, helping you maintain the beauty and safety of your property. For severe damage or if you're unsure about the extent of the damage please call your local Almstead Branch Office as soon as possible.

 

Initial Safety Assessment

Before you begin assessing the damage, prioritize safety. Look for downed power lines, broken branches that are hung up in the tree, and any trees that are leaning precariously. If you spot any of these hazards, keep a safe distance and contact emergency services or a professional arborist to handle the situation. Never attempt to deal with these dangerous conditions on your own.

 

Assessing the Damage

Once it’s safe to proceed, conduct a thorough inspection of your trees and shrubs. Look for broken branches, split trunks, and uprooted trees. Pay special attention to the following signs of damage:

• Broken or Hanging Branches: These can pose a risk to people and property if they fall. Branches that are partially broken or hanging should be removed as soon as possible.
• Cracked Trunks and Branches: Cracks can compromise the structural integrity of the tree. Small cracks can sometimes be pruned out, but larger cracks may require professional assessment.
• Uprooted or Leaning Trees: Trees that have been uprooted or are leaning significantly may need to be removed or stabilized. Uprooted trees often cannot be saved, but a professional can sometimes correct leaning trees.
• Damaged Bark and Exposed Wood: Torn bark and exposed wood can become entry points for pests and diseases. Proper pruning and wound care are necessary to protect the tree.

 

Immediate Actions to Take

For minor damage, you can take some immediate actions to help your trees recover:

• Prune Broken Branches: Use clean, sharp tools to prune broken branches back to the nearest healthy branch or the trunk. Make clean cuts to avoid leaving jagged edges, which can lead to further damage.
• Remove Hanging Branches: Carefully remove any hanging branches that are still attached to the tree. This can prevent further damage and reduce safety risks.
• Stabilize Small Trees: If a small tree is leaning, you can often stabilize it by staking it upright. Use soft ties to avoid damaging the bark, and ensure the tree is staked loosely enough to allow for natural movement.

 

When to Call a Professional Arborist

For more severe damage or if you're unsure about the extent of the damage, it’s best to call a professional tree care company, like Almstead. We are trained to handle complex situations and can provide services such as:

• Tree Removal: Safely removing trees that pose a hazard to your property.
• Cabling and Bracing: Installing supports to stabilize cracked or split trees and prevent further damage.
• Health Assessments: Evaluating the overall health of the tree and determining the best course of action for recovery or removal.
• Debris Cleanup: Safely removing fallen branches and debris from your property.

 

Long-Term Recovery and Care

After the immediate danger has been addressed, focus on the long-term recovery of your trees. Proper care can help damaged trees recover and become more resilient to future storms:

• Regular Pruning: Maintain the health and structure of your trees through regular pruning. Removing weak or damaged branches can reduce the risk of storm damage.
• Mulching: Apply mulch around the base of your trees to retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and prevent weed growth.
• Fertilizing: Provide your trees with the nutrients they need to recover by fertilizing appropriately. Use a slow-release fertilizer to avoid over-fertilization.
• Watering: Ensure your trees receive adequate water, especially during dry periods. Deep watering encourages deep root growth, making trees more stable.

 

Preventative Measures

To minimize future storm damage, consider taking preventative measures such as:

• Tree Inspections: Schedule regular inspections by a professional arborist to identify and address potential issues before they become serious problems.
• Proper Planting: Plant trees in locations where they have enough space to grow without obstruction, and choose species that are well-suited to your local climate and soil conditions.
• Protective Structures: Use protective structures such as windbreaks or barriers to shield young or vulnerable trees from strong winds.

 

By following these guidelines, you can effectively assess and address tree damage after summer storms, ensuring the safety and health of your landscape. Remember to call Almstead right away if the damage is substantial or if there are any safety issues involved.