Have you ever stood in your yard after a violent storm, staring at a beloved tree torn and battered by nature’s fury? With scattered branches, stripped bark, and hanging limbs, the sight can be heartbreaking, and it might seem like all hope is lost.
But before you rush to remove the tree, know that there may be a possibility of recovery. With prompt action and the expertise of a certified arborist, your tree could continue thriving for years to come. After all, tree experts like TreeWiseMen can assess damage that an untrained eye might misinterpret and can determine whether a tree can be saved or if removal is the safest option.
If you’re concerned about your tree’s health after a storm, consider how the following professional services could enhance its health.
Pruning to Remove Hazards
Sometimes, a storm-damaged tree only has a few broken limbs. In this case, tree pruning is often all that’s needed to open the path to recovery. By pruning away damaged or hanging branches, a certified arborist not only improves the tree’s appearance but also helps prevent decay and disease from taking root. Throughout the service, they will make clean cuts that promote natural healing and future growth.
Cabling and Bracing for Structural Support
A tree that’s been weakened by a storm doesn’t always have to be cut down. In fact, many trees with splits or heavy, damaged limbs can be stabilized with professional support systems. For example, cables can be installed between major limbs to correct splitting or leaning, and rods can be inserted into the tree to support splits and weak points.
These reinforcements help redistribute stress throughout the tree and minimize further damage. They can also prolong the life of the tree by preventing major breaks during future storms. If you want to save a storm-damaged tree that seems unstable, cabling and bracing might be your best option.
Soil Care to Boost Recovery
A storm doesn’t just affect what you see above ground. The tree’s roots may have also experienced trauma. For example, heavy rainfall may have compacted the soil or washed away nutrients, and while not immediately visible, these problems can leave the tree vulnerable to fungal growth, disease, and pest infestations in the weeks following the storm.
For this reason, soil care is essential for restoring vitality. Techniques like deep-root fertilization, trunk injections, and organic mulching can help reinvigorate the root zone. And by encouraging root growth, you guarantee the tree has the support it needs to rebuild its canopy and recover fully.
Insect and Disease Management for Future Protection
Open wounds from storms provide an easy entry point for pests and diseases. If left untreated, even a relatively minor injury can become a breeding ground for decay. Therefore, you should have a certified arborist diagnose potential threats early and implement a targeted plan with treatments and services such as topical fungicides, insecticidal applications, and proactive pruning to remove infected areas. With these solutions, your tree is well on its way to full recovery and better health.
When Tree Removal Is Necessary
Some trees, sadly, can’t be saved. If more than 50% of the canopy is lost, the trunk is severely split, or the root system has been compromised, removing the tree is often the safest and most responsible option. ISA-certified and TCIA-accredited arborists can help assess the situation objectively and safely remove trees that pose a hazard to people and property. While it’s never easy to say goodbye to a mature tree, planting a new one in its place could be a powerful symbol of renewal.
Let TreeWiseMen Save Your Storm-Damaged Tree
After a storm, it’s tempting to wait and see how a damaged tree responds over time. However, delays in care can only make matters worse. That’s why it’s so important to have a certified arborist inspect your trees promptly. With a trained eye, they can identify risks and offer tailored solutions on how to save a storm-damaged tree. Getting this professional input early on can save you money, time, and heartache later.
If a storm has recently blown through your town, TreeWiseMen is here to help. Our highly trained, licensed, and insured professionals are equipped to assess, diagnose, and restore storm-damaged trees — or safely remove them if needed. Reach out to TreeWiseMen for an expert inspection and personalized tree care plan.
