Taking Care of Trees After a Storm

by | Aug 16, 2019 | Tree Services

Over the next few years, trees that survived the serious storm damage will need unique care. The canopy loss will decrease the capacity of trees to photosynthesize and take up water for food. As trees enter the hottest portion of the year, increased fertilization and watering and are essential after the rains have gone.  

Tree owners are responsible for supplementing the nutrients needed by trees, particularly the ones they can no longer absorb from their surroundings. Your arborist can address fertilization alternatives, including an extensive plant health care program for your tree delivered throughout the year. 

Storms and Trees  

Storms can cause a lot of harm done to trees, particularly when there are high winds and hails. After the storm, removing any fallen or damaged limbs and clearing all other debris is essential. If the tree is vulnerable to wilting or other illnesses, the services of an arborist are critical.    

It is essential to start a water regimen for damaged trees after any flooding has occurred and until the soil returns to its usual moisture concentrations. Damage to tree tissues may diminish the capacity of the tree to extract water and nutrients from the soil. Furthermore, fertilizers boost the nutrients available in the soil. 

Storm Damaged Trees 

While fertilization goes a long way to help restore damaged trees, trees still get more prone to pests, infestations, and other diseases. Fungal problems are increasingly prevalent with the latest moist climate, but environmental stress and insect activity are also hazards to avoid. During the storm season, trees tend to:  

1. Fail and die  

While trees have the ability to store energy to last for years, infestation and damage cause them to die slowly. The oak wilt-carrying beetles are also a problem as they tend to wound and damaged trees. These beetles and the fungus they carry will stay active until as temperatures continuously goes up to over 90 degrees. 

2. Sun Damage 

The branches and trunks of trees will be subjected to more direct sunlight with decreased leafy canopy, which can cause additional harm. Red oaks are particularly susceptible to damage from the sun. 

3. Broken Limbs 

Trees develop in reaction to their surroundings. When one tree in a group is damaged or removed, the environment exposes the other trees in the same harm in ways they were not before. The newly exposed trees may not be tailored to their current circumstances. As future storms and wind pass through the region, they may not be able to resist the elements. Ask your arborist to see if you can apply tree cabling or bracing to strengthen your trees. 

Watch Signs of Tree Stress 

It may take weeks or months for trees to demonstrate signs of stress from storm damage. Some indications of stress are yellowing leaves and discoloration of the limbs. Consult a certified arborist if you see any of these indications or have any other concerns about the health of your tree. Monroe Louisiana tree service can help you greatly with all things related to caring for your trees, especially after a storm.