Originally Posted On: https://artstreeservicesarasota.com/what-to-do-with-storm-damaged-trees-after-severe-weather-hits/

What To Do With Storm-Damaged Trees After Severe Weather Hits

Overview

Severe weather can leave a lasting impact on your property, especially when it comes to trees. High winds, heavy rain, and snow or ice storms can cause branches to snap, trunks to split, and entire trees to topple. In this blog post, Art’s Tree Service’s tree experts walk you through the steps you should take after a storm to safely address damaged trees.

Highlights

• Assessing tree damage
• How to address storm-damaged trees
• Preventative tree care to reduce storm damage

Introduction

Storms are unpredictable, and so is the damage they leave behind. If your property has been hit by severe weather, you’re likely dealing with fallen branches, damaged trees, and possibly blocked driveways or power lines. The big question is: what should you do next?

The answer depends on the extent of the damage and the type of tree affected. With proper care and attention, a storm-damaged tree can be saved. However, in other cases, removing the tree completely may be necessary for safety reasons.

Let’s go over what you should do to address a storm-damaged tree after severe weather hits.

Assessing the Damage: Can Your Tree Be Saved?

Once the storm has passed, the first step is to assess the condition of your trees. Some may have only minor damage, while others might be beyond saving. A careful evaluation will help you determine whether a tree can recover or if it poses a danger and needs to be removed.

How Can You Tell if a Tree Can Be Saved?

If the damage is minor and the tree still has a strong structure, it may recover with proper care.

Look for these positive signs:

• Minimal branch loss: If only a few smaller branches are broken and the tree still maintains its shape, it has a good chance of survival.
• An intact trunk: A tree with a solid trunk and no major cracks or splits can often be salvaged, even if some limbs are lost.
• A strong root system: The tree is much more likely to recover if the roots are still firmly in place. Trees that have been partially uprooted may not survive.
• New growth: If you notice healthy leaves or buds in the coming weeks, it’s a good sign that your tree is bouncing back.

Ultimately, the key to a tree’s recovery lies in its current strength and resilience. If you observe these positive signs, your tree has a promising chance to bounce back. With vigilant care and timely intervention, even a damaged tree can regain its vitality and continue to be a cherished part of your landscape.

What Are Signs a Tree Needs To Be Removed?

Some trees suffer too much damage to be saved.

If you notice any of the following issues, removal may be the safest option:

• Severe trunk damage: Large cracks, deep splits, or missing bark indicate a tree may be structurally unsound.
• Major limb loss: If more than 50% of the branches are broken or missing, the tree may not have enough foliage to sustain itself.
• Uprooting or leaning: A tree that’s partially uprooted or leaning heavily poses a serious risk of falling.

In some cases, the damage is simply too extensive for a tree to recover. When a tree shows signs of severe structural compromise, it’s a clear signal that removal might be the most prudent choice.

If you’re unsure about your tree’s health, a certified arborist can evaluate the situation and provide you with expert advice. A professional will know whether your tree can be saved or if it’s time to remove it for safety reasons.

How Should You Address Storm-Damaged Trees? DIY Tree Cleanup vs. Professional Tree Removal

Once you’ve assessed the damage, the next step is deciding whether to handle the cleanup yourself or whether you should call a professional. While some minor tasks can be done safely, major tree damage is best left to experts who have the equipment and experience to remove trees without causing further harm to property or people.

When Can You Handle the Cleanup Yourself?

If the damage is minimal and the tree doesn’t pose a safety risk, you may be able to take care of cleanup on your own.

One situation where cleanup is viable without a professional is when you have light debris in your yard. Twigs, leaves, and smaller branches can be raked and cleared without special tools.

Another situation is when there’s minor damage to your tree. If your tree has a small, shallow wound and isn’t leaning or showing signs of instability, it may be able to heal on its own with proper care.

When Should You Call for Professional Tree Service?

Some tree damage is too dangerous to handle without professional equipment and expertise. If you encounter any of the following situations, it’s best to hire a tree removal service:

• Large, heavy branches that need removal: A falling tree limb can cause serious injuries or property damage. Attempting to remove big branches without the right tools can be risky, and using a chainsaw can be dangerous if you’re not experienced. Professionals have the training to safely handle large-scale tree removal.
• Split or uprooted trees: If a tree has been partially uprooted or its trunk has a deep crack, it’s unstable and could collapse unexpectedly, warranting professional help.
• Trees near power lines: Never attempt to remove a tree or branch that’s touching or near a power line. Contact your utility company and a tree care professional immediately.
• Leaning trees: If a tree has started to lean after a storm, it’s likely to fall. A tree removal service can safely take it down before it causes damage.

Even if you feel comfortable doing some cleanup, it’s always a good idea to get a second opinion from a tree care expert if you’re unsure. A professional arborist can assess the tree’s health and determine whether it needs removal or just corrective pruning.

How Do You Reduce Future Storm Damage With Preventative Tree Care?

While you can’t control the weather, you can take steps to make your trees more resilient to future storms. Regular tree maintenance reduces the chances of branches breaking, trees being uprooted, and property damage occurring when severe weather strikes. Taking proactive measures now can save you money and stress in the long run.

Here are some preventative tree care tips to reduce future storm damage.

Schedule Tree Pruning Regularly

Regular tree pruning helps keep your trees strong and healthy. By trimming away dead or weak branches, you reduce the chance of them breaking off during a storm and causing damage. It also encourages new growth and improves the tree’s overall shape, making it more resistant to heavy winds.

Check for Signs of Disease or Decay

If you notice any signs like mushrooms growing on the trunk, cracks in the bark, or sections of the tree that look weak or rotting, it might mean the tree is sick or decaying. A sick tree is more likely to fall during a storm, which can be dangerous. It’s a good idea to call a professional to check it out and figure out the best way to handle it.

Remove Hazardous Trees Before Storm Season

If you have a tree that looks like it might not make it through a storm, it’s better to have it removed before the bad weather hits. A tree that’s leaning too much, has large dead branches, or has dying roots sticking out of the ground could be a big risk during high winds or heavy rain. Removing a hazardous tree ahead of time can save you from major damage to your property.

Plant Storm-Resistant Tree Species

Planting storm-resistant tree species is a smart way to prepare for extreme weather. These types of trees are naturally stronger and more flexible, making them less likely to break or fall during high winds or heavy rain.

Some good options include live oaks, bald cypresses, and crape myrtles, as these trees are known for withstanding harsh conditions. When choosing trees, also think about their size and where you plant them. Avoid planting large trees too close to your house, power lines, or other structures to reduce the risk of damage if a storm does happen.

By taking these preventative steps, you’ll keep your trees healthier and better equipped to withstand storms. If you’re unsure about the best approach for your property, a professional can provide expert advice and help with regular maintenance.

Contact a Tree Service Company Today

Dealing with storm-damaged trees can be stressful, but acting quickly can prevent further issues. A professional can assess the extent of the damage and determine whether tree removal or pruning is needed. While minor cleanup can be handled on your own, larger hazards require a professional to ensure safe removal. Regular tree maintenance, including pruning and health assessments, can reduce the risk of severe storm damage in the future.

If you need emergency tree removal or expert advice, Art’s Tree Service is here to help. Our team provides tree removal and preventative care services to keep your property safe. Call us today at (941) 877-1317 to schedule a consultation with our tree experts.