Extreme weather can wreak havoc on your trees. Heavy rain, lightning, and high winds can cause damage to your trees, which in turn may further damage your property. Ice and snow from winter storms can also damage trees and cause limbs to break off. These situations can potentially harm items in your yard. In worst-case scenarios, you could end up with costly damage to your vehicles or even to your house. With a little bit of preparation, you can save yourself some trouble as well as some money on costly cleanup and repairs in the aftermath of a storm.
Preparing for Storms
The best way to prepare your trees before storm season arrives is by keeping them trimmed. Be on the lookout for weak or damaged limbs, as they’ll be the first to fall off due to heavy winds. Keep long and weaker limbs trimmed and reasonably short all year to prevent problems. Wind and heavy rains can lead to erosion over the years, which weakens the entire tree. One way to protect your trees from erosion is by putting mulch around the base of the tree.
While trimming away dead, extra-long, or weak branches is always vital throughout the year, you actually don’t want to over prune trees during hurricane season. This can leave them more vulnerable during extremely high winds. For valuable or older trees with a strong root system, you may consider anchoring them to the ground with special straps and cables. In such cases, it may be best to contact a professional for assistance.
Winter Storm Prep
Winter storms may seem like less of an issue where you live than spring and summer storms, but it only takes one frost or ice storm per season to cause massive damage to your trees. Make sure that your trees are well watered, and remove any branches hanging over your roof or vehicles. In all cases, be on the lookout for pests, damaged limbs, or decay on your trees. Mulch can keep the root system of your trees protected during especially cold weather. This is important for maintaining younger or newly planted trees.
We’re Here to Help
Sometimes, it’s best to let the professionals handle your tree maintenance. If you need cleanup service for damaged trees after a storm, it can be dangerous to tackle this by yourself. Professionals know how to safely remove broken limbs and damaged trees from your property without causing further damage. When an untrained homeowner attempts such work, they risk harming themselves and making the situation worse. If you need help with storm cleanup and preparation, contact the experts at South Coast Outdoor Service in Mobile, AL.
