What to do after a storm….
/A storm has just come through and several trees on your property have limbs down. First, you’re thankful that nothing is damaged, but now what do you do? How did this happen? Should you call someone? What can you do to prevent it from happening again? These are all questions that go through homeowners’ minds when dealing with storm damage.
“In the upper Midwest, wind and ice storms are common, and often cause tremendous damage to individual trees and urban forests. These storms can cause weakly attached branches or leaders to separate and rip trees apart. Trees with stem girdling roots or inadequate root systems may blow over or break off at the ground line. Whatever the case, these effects can cause both personal and property damage.” (UMN Extension)
Here are the steps to prevent your trees from getting damaged in the future (UMN Extension):
- Prediction – Look at the form of the tree, any decay that may be present (and the extent of the decay, if present), maintenance practices involving the tree, the presence of stem girdling roots, and existing site problems.
- Prevention – Take inventory of the trees on your property, monitor their current health, make sure you are pruning properly, learn proper planting practices, maintain your trees' health, and ask for help from a professional.
- Treatment - There are several treatments a homeowner may use to correct the minor damages that storms inflict. Before any of these techniques are attempted, consider hiring an arborist.
“There are several types of tree damage that occur from violent weather. Each has its own specific assessment considerations. All parts of the tree should be inspected during a post-storm assessment. This requires the expertise of trained, professional arborists to assist with the decision making regarding the best course of action.” (Purdue Extension)
Contact us today for an assessment of your trees and let us assist you in preventing any future storm damage to your property.
Resources:
https://www.extension.umn.edu/environment/trees-woodlands/storm-damage-to-landscape-trees/
