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Wind, rain, and lightning can all pose a threat to the trees on your property. If it is too severe, it could put your roof, car, or family at risk. With this in mind, the guide below looks at some common issues affecting storm-damaged trees and what preventive measures you can take.

How Weather Can Affect Trees

While rare, the most obvious sign of an issue is if your tree has blown over in the yard. In less severe cases, branches might break off due to high winds or the weight of heavy ice or snow. Trees with a large fork may split at the natural joint of the tree. Once a branch is severed, it leaves an opening that is more vulnerable to pests and disease, making further damage more likely.

Alternatively, your tree could suffer from root or stem failures due to flooding, especially if the roots were already shallow, rotted, or damaged. As a result, the tree might lean or bend and will be more likely to fall next time.

How to Prevent Storm Damage in Trees

Proper Pruning

storm damage treesTrees need judicious pruning over time to grow healthy. It is best to cut branches in such a way as to not damage the branch collar—where these limbs attach to the stem. Co-dominant, forking, or opposite branches should be pruned, as these growth configurations can weaken the entire tree.

Keep Trees Healthy

Each tree has different water requirements, depending on their variety and climate. Research these well and have your plants inspected annually for signs of weakness. 

Habituate Your Trees to the Wind 

Trees are adaptable living organisms. Many adjust to their environment, learning to withstand the usual wind load. Therefore, if you’re planting a new tree, stake or tie it only loosely so that it can bend and sway in the wind. Keep ties in place to help the root system establish itself for about two years, after which the tree can stand independently.

 

Worried about how the weather in your area will affect your trees? Call Lincoln Tree Service, Inc. in Lancaster County, NE. They will use their 31 years of experience to help protect your property from storm-damaged trees and to encourage healthy growth among your plants. Their services include everything from tree maintenance, bracing, and pruning. Call (402) 466-1627 to schedule service or visit the website for a full list of offerings.

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