green tip: JULY 2009

Avoiding Summer Storm Damage

Summer is a season of unpredictable and sometimes violent storms – often bringing very high winds and heavy downpours. In the aftermath, major tree damage can result. While some trees are more prone to storm damage than others, proper planning and maintenance can help head off any potential disasters before they occur. By having your trees assessed by a certified arborist, you can identify potential hazards which may cause a tree to fall.

Certain trees are more prone to storm damage due to structural weaknesses in their growth patterns. A tree may experience branch failure when the branch is poorly attached to the tree trunk, possibly causing additional damage to the branches below. Other trees may have shallow root formations, causing them to fall over in rain soaked-soil and high winds, possibly damaging a house or car. A tree may also experience crown twist when there is more wind loading on one side of the tree. Over time, this will produce a twist or torque in the tree and branches may collapse. Lightning damage is also a hazard with older, taller trees.

The single most important thing your arborist can do to prevent storm damage in your trees is thinning! Thinning allows more wind to pass easily through the tree, making them less likely to blow over in high winds. Not overcrowding your trees and proper cabling and bracing of weakened branches will also be good protection, since trees need to be able to move in the wind. With proper maintenance, your trees will build a wind firmness and improve their stability for years to come.