***PROTECT YOUR TREES FROM HURRICANE DAMAGE*** Tree damage can be one of the saddest consequences of any hurricane or severe windstorm. Trees are a vital element in any landscaping plan, providing shade, beauty, and even increasing property values. They offer environmental benefits as well, such as cleaner air and water, soil conservation, climate moderation, protection for other plants and shelter for birds. In terms of safety, fallen trees or limbs can damage homes and other structures during a hurricane. Knowing how to prepare existing trees for hurricane season can greatly reduce the risk of lost or damaged trees. Structural pruning is crucial in allowing a tree to develop in strength and reduce the likelihood of damage. Trees need to be pruned selectively to allow wind passage, encourage strong branch angles and a stable center of gravity. There are some steps you can take on your own, but for best results, rely on the expertise of your tree service professional in preparing your trees for hurricane season. 1. For young trees, prune to develop one dominant trunk by shortening competing branches. 2. For mature trees, reduce the length of branches with weak attachment to the trunk and reduce limbs that are more than half the diameter of main trunk or extend beyond main canopy. 3. Balance the canopy by reducing the length of limbs on the side of trunk where weight is concentrated. If you are considering removing trees prior to a hurricane, a tree service professional will help you evaluate which trees you can keep and which should go. Considerations include: 1. Health of tree 2. Species of tree 3. Age of tree 4. Strength of structure 5. Previous maintenance 6. Denseness of canopy 7. Proximity to a structure You can’t control the weather, but with the help of a qualified tree service professional, you can take positive steps to lessen its effects on your trees.
Posted on: Wed, 05 Jun 2013 22:24:03 +0000
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