We’ve had a couple of pretty nice days around here over the last couple of weeks but we do know that fall and winter is coming. And while we may not have the torrential storms they have in the south and east, we do get some doozies from time to time. If you have trees in your backyard or anywhere on your property that you’d like to protect or storm proof, here are some simple ways to protect your trees from storm damage.
#1. Give them room to grow and sway.
By planting trees to close together, you eliminate the need for them to dig deep and really hold on to the ground and rocks in the ground with their root systems. They tend to lean on each other and support each other and if one of those trees goes down, their support system becomes more fragile. By giving the bring to grow throughout the yard, though have well-spaced limbs and branches to avoid structural damage. This can be a benefit during a storm or windy day.
#2. Protect the trunk.
Although we don’t have severe temperatures, we can dip into the low teens and even single digits during the winter. By wrapping tree trunks in burlap with heavy twine will offer protection from severe temperatures and even wind.
#3. Keep an eye on the weather.
Just knowing what the weather will do can help you prepare and plan ahead, not just for trees but for protection for your home and family as well. Plan ahead, adhere to any warnings and keep a close eye out for any trees that might be pulling up the ground as they sway. These trees might be unstable and should be removed before damage from the storm occurs.
#4. Trim the tree regularly.
Have the right tools or contact a tree trimming specialist to trim the tree so that it’s not just a huge windbreak and gets pushed over in a strong wind. Having the air flow freely through the limbs will allow the tree to sway and move freely with the wind without acting like a wall that just gets knocked over.
#5. Don’t plant trees too far apart.
I know I just said to let your trees have room to grow, but trees planted totally alone, as if it’s the only one in the backyard, are more susceptible to wind damage than trees planted in groves or groups. I’m not saying they need to be planted right next to each other, but planting several of the same trees within close proximity are about 30% less likely to be blown over in strong windstorms. There were tree roots will interlock but given enough space, they will not only interlock but they will dig deep enough to hold them regardless of the weather.
If you’re concerned about a tree on your property please give us a call. We’d be happy to offer a consultation and a quick quote on what it would take to either thin out the tree or remove it altogether. We can assess any storm damage or pinpoint any areas of concern when there is a storm.