T
he same trees that shade
our homes, add value
to our neighborhoods
and freshen our air can wreak
havoc after a strong storm blows
through.
"The world of trees is
deceptive," explains R.J. Laverne,
a board certified master arborist
with The Davey Tree Expert
Company. "Even the strongest,
heftiest trees can fall victim to
severe winter weather, disease or
infestation."
How does one prevent this
from happening? Don't ignore
trees throughout the year by
providing proper maintenance.
Being proactive can ensure
trees stay strong no matter what
kind of weather Mother Nature
delivers. "By the time you notice
a tree is sick or in danger, it's
usually too late, and broken limbs
or rotten trunks will have you
wishing you had checked your
trees earlier," Laverne points out.
Check out these acorns
of wisdom from Davey's
professionally trained arborists on
some common tree problems.
How can I lower the risk of my
tree being damaged in a storm?
Remove any hazardous branches
or deadwood. With weak
branches, adding support cables
can also help prolong tree life
and stability. Also, follow proper
maintenance throughout the year.
A big branch snapped off in a
storm. Do I need to hire someone
to remove it cleanly?
Yes. A clean break allows the plant
Need a diagnosis, STAT!? We've got you covered.
Tree Trouble ID
to wall-off the wound. And a
professionally trained arborist can
advise a homeowner on whether
other help is needed, such as
installation of steel support cables,
to save the tree.
When is an inspection by a
professionally trained arborist
necessary?
Unlike larger pieces of deadwood
or fungus on leaves, some tree
defects are not always visible.
And, unlike people, trees
cannot share the aches and pains
they have on the inside, which
is why it is important to contact
a professional for diagnosis so
that all areas of the tree can be
properly assessed.
What does hiring a professionally
trained arborist entail?
A professionally trained arborist
will consult with you on ways to
preserve trees and evaluate each
tree's health and value. Typically,
initial consultations are free.
How often should I have a
professionally trained arborist
evaluate my trees?
After a big tree-damaging storm,
whenever you notice that areas of
the crown have died off, or every
two to three years.
A tree with strong, healthy wood is more
likely to survive destructive, stormy weather.
Have our professionally trained arborists
inspect your tree if you suspect weakness.
