Post-Storm Tree Care: What You Need to Know

When a storm hits, it can leave your property looking like a war zone—fallen branches, uprooted trees, and debris scattered everywhere. But once the storm has passed, it's time to take action to ensure the health and safety of your trees. As tree care experts at The Climbing Grunt Tree Service, we understand the importance of proper post-storm tree care. Whether your trees are slightly damaged or heavily impacted, following the right steps can help preserve their health and your property’s safety.

1. Assess the Damage Safely

Before you start inspecting your trees, it’s crucial to stay safe. Storms can leave trees weakened and branches hanging precariously. Don’t rush outside immediately—wait until emergency crews have cleared the area and it’s safe to approach.

Once the danger has passed, take a walk around your property to assess the damage. Look for:

• Uprooted trees: These may have pulled up roots and are at risk of falling completely if not properly dealt with.

• Broken or split branches: Large limbs can fall or continue to break over time.

• Leaning trees: A leaning tree might indicate root or trunk damage, which could result in the tree falling later.

• Damaged trunks: Visible cracks, splits, or wounds on the trunk often signal internal damage that could affect the tree’s stability.

If you see any major concerns or the damage seems beyond your ability to safely manage, it’s best to call a professional arborist like The Climbing Grunt Tree Service to inspect and handle the situation.

2. Prune Damaged Branches

Removing damaged branches is one of the most important steps in post-storm tree care. Broken or hanging branches pose a safety hazard, and leaving them can increase the risk of disease. Use proper pruning tools to cut away broken or diseased branches, making sure to:

• Cut at the right angle: Always prune branches at a slight angle, about 1-2 inches above the node or bud, to promote healthy growth.

• Avoid cutting too much: Don’t over-prune. Cutting too many branches can stress the tree and make it harder for it to recover.

Be mindful of the size of branches you’re dealing with. If you’re unsure or handling large branches, it’s best to hire a professional tree service. We have the right equipment to safely trim large branches and avoid causing additional harm to your tree.

3. Check for Root Damage

Storms can cause significant damage to tree roots, especially if trees are uprooted or leaning. Roots are the lifeblood of a tree, so checking for damage is essential. Look for:

• Exposed or damaged roots: Roots that have been ripped from the ground may no longer be able to support the tree’s weight or provide nutrients effectively.

• Heaving soil: If the soil around your tree is displaced, it could indicate that the root system is compromised.

If your tree is leaning or roots are damaged, professional help is often needed. Arborists can assess whether the tree can be saved or if it needs to be removed.

4. Water and Mulch

Once the immediate storm damage is addressed, it's time to give your tree a little TLC. During the recovery period, trees may need extra water and care to bounce back from the trauma.

• Watering: Trees that have suffered stress during a storm will need more water than usual to help them recover. However, be sure not to over-water, as this can cause root rot. Aim for deep watering at the tree's base to encourage root growth.

• Mulching: Applying a layer of mulch around the base of the tree will help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect the roots. Make sure to keep the mulch away from the tree trunk to prevent rot.

5. Watch for Disease or Pests

After a storm, trees are more susceptible to diseases and pests. Damaged trees are particularly vulnerable to fungal infections and infestations by insects like bark beetles. Keep an eye out for:

• Discolored leaves or bark: These could be signs of disease or stress.

• Visible pests or holes in the bark: If you see pests, take action immediately.

If you suspect that your tree might be infected or infested, it’s wise to consult a professional arborist. Catching these issues early can prevent further damage.

6. Give Your Tree Time to Recover

Even after performing the necessary storm cleanup, it's important to give your tree time to heal. Trees are resilient, but recovery can take time. Be patient and monitor the tree’s progress. If you notice ongoing problems or the tree’s condition worsens, consider consulting with an arborist to determine the best course of action.

Final Thoughts

Caring for trees after a storm requires a careful approach. By properly assessing the damage, trimming hazardous branches, checking for root damage, and providing extra care, you can help your trees recover and thrive. However, when the damage is severe or you’re unsure about what steps to take, don’t hesitate to contact professionals like The Climbing Grunt Tree Service. We’re here to help ensure that your trees come through the storm stronger than ever.

Stay safe, and take care of your trees!

The Climbing Grunt Tree Service: Your local experts for all your tree care needs.

Post-Storm Tree Care: What to Do After the Storm Passes
By The Climbing Grunt Tree Service

The storm has passed, and you’ve made it through. Now, as you step outside and assess the damage, one of the first things you’ll notice is the state of your trees. Whether it's a few broken branches or a larger issue like leaning trunks, it's crucial to give your trees the proper care after a storm. As arborists at Climbing Grunt Tree Service, we understand the importance of acting quickly and safely when it comes to post-storm tree care. Here’s what you need to know to ensure your trees get the attention they deserve.

1. Assess the Damage Safely

Before you pick up your pruning shears, it’s essential to assess the damage safely. First, check your surroundings. If there are downed power lines near the tree, stay at least 50 feet away and contact the utility company immediately. Always put safety first! If you see large limbs that are hanging or leaning precariously, don’t attempt to remove them yourself. This is the type of work we’re trained for, and it’s often safer to call in professionals to avoid injury or additional damage.

2. Inspect for Major Structural Issues

After the storm, your tree might be weakened or damaged in a way that isn’t immediately obvious. Look for:

• Broken or cracked branches: Large branches that have snapped can pose a danger of falling later.

• Leaning trunks: A tree that has been uprooted or tilted may be at risk of toppling completely.

• Wounds or bark damage: Large scars on the tree could expose it to infection or pests.

• Exposed roots: If roots have been exposed due to soil movement, it’s essential to secure and stabilize them quickly to avoid further damage.

If you spot any of these signs, it’s a good idea to get in touch with a certified arborist, who can help determine whether your tree can be saved or if it should be removed.

3. Prune Damaged Branches Carefully

Once you’ve identified broken or damaged limbs, it’s time to prune them. Make sure to use clean, sharp tools to avoid further injury to the tree. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Always make cuts just outside the branch collar (the raised area where the branch meets the trunk) to ensure proper healing.

• Avoid “topping” the tree. Cutting off the top can leave your tree vulnerable to decay and further damage.

• Remove any small, damaged branches first, working your way up to larger limbs.

Pruning helps the tree heal faster by redirecting its energy toward healthy growth, but remember to avoid pruning too much. The goal is to make your tree look tidy and safe while allowing it to continue growing in a healthy manner.

4. Consider Mulching and Watering

Storms can put a lot of stress on your trees, especially if they’ve lost leaves or suffered from root disruption. After trimming and assessing, apply a layer of mulch around the base of your tree to help retain moisture and protect its roots from the harsh elements. A good rule of thumb is to spread mulch about 2-3 inches deep, keeping it away from the tree trunk to prevent rot.

Additionally, make sure your tree gets the water it needs to recover. If your area has experienced a lot of rain, you may not need to water immediately, but in drier months, providing supplemental watering can help your tree bounce back more quickly.

5. Don’t Forget About Tree Health and Growth

In the aftermath of a storm, it’s easy to focus solely on damage control, but it's just as important to give your trees the nutrients they need to thrive in the long term. Depending on the type of tree and the severity of the damage, it might benefit from fertilization or even a soil treatment. Working with an arborist can help you decide what’s best for the health of your tree, and if it's showing signs of distress, they can recommend appropriate treatments.

6. Regular Inspections Going Forward

Once your tree has recovered from the initial storm damage, it’s crucial to keep an eye on it over the next few months. Storms can sometimes trigger delayed reactions in trees, such as limb breakage or leaning. Scheduling regular inspections with a tree care professional is the best way to ensure your trees stay healthy and safe in the long run.

Wrapping Up

Storms are unpredictable, and the aftermath can be overwhelming. But by following these simple steps for post-storm tree care, you can help your trees recover and thrive. If you’re unsure about the condition of your trees, don’t hesitate to reach out to the professionals at Climbing Grunt Tree Service. We’re here to help ensure your trees remain safe, healthy, and strong.

Remember, your trees are more than just backyard decor—they’re an investment in your property and the environment. Give them the care they need, and they’ll keep providing shade, beauty, and value for years to come.