To protect your trees from strong storms, it’s crucial to implement a care regime. With the help of a tree specialist, you can avoid falling branches and damage due to powerful rain and wind. Here are a few ways to reduce the chances of storm damage to trees.

A Guide to Protecting Your Trees from Storm Damage

1. Schedule Tree Pruning

Pruning removes any dead or weak branches and increases the stability of your tree. Before storm season, hire an arborist to cut any branch larger than one inch in diameter. This will prevent limbs from breaking and falling onto your property during strong winds. 

Refrain from taking on this task by yourself, as tree specialists have the proper skills and equipment needed to ensure your safety.

2. Provide Proper Care

Healthy trees remain sturdy against high winds and rain. A mature tree needs at least one inch of water a week, so if it hasn’t rained, check to see if it needs a drink. Also, apply fertilizer regularly to release nutrients back into the soil to strengthen and nourish the tree. Doing so will help it stand up against harsh weather conditions. 

3. Treat Pests

A storm can cause more damage to a tree that has been weakened by pests. In Pennsylvania, gypsy moths, emerald ash borers, and hemlock woolly adelgids are all insects to watch out for.

Check the leaves and branches often and take note if they are discolored, of abnormal size, or damaged. When you inspect your trunk and branches, look for decreased branch growth from previous years, as well as holes on the trunk. An arborist can diagnose any pest problems and help you treat them. This will ensure your tree remains sturdy during a storm. 
 

Enlisting the help of professionals is essential to preventing storm damage. Nelson Tree Company has been taking care of trees in Irwin, PA, and Westmoreland County since 1987. Their arborists perform a wide variety of services, including tree removal, storm damage cleanup, and stump removal. They also offer 24/7 emergency services if a storm hits. Visit their website, or call (724) 863-7682 to schedule a free estimate.