Hurricane season can wreak havoc on the eastern United States, Ontario, and other areas of eastern Canada. Storm force winds and torrential rains can cause extensive damage to trees, despite their strength or size. Observe the following tree care techniques to keep trees strong and resistant to potential weather damage.
Keep the Roots Strong
The roots of the tree are critical to its stability. Strong roots can anchor the tree and keep it stable, even when galeforce winds are present. To keep roots deeply grounded, avoid activities (like excavation or heavy construction) that may affect the growth of the roots or compromise nutrients in the soil.
Past storms may have already weakened the roots of your trees. To strengthen affected roots, surround the base of your trees with mulch. This will preserve the nutrients of the soil, prevent the growth of weeds, and add an extra layer of protection against strong winds.
Prune Regularly
A heavy canopy can result in a number of broken branches during a storm. This can be prevented by regularly pruning your trees. In addition to preventing damage to your property caused by broken branches, pruning your trees can better shape them to withstand strong winds. Begin pruning trees when they are newly planted so that they can develop a stronger trunk.
Protect the Trunk
If you are expecting a strong storm, wrap the trunk of your trees with protective materials like burlap. This can prevent damages to the trunk caused by flying debris. Be sure to remove these protective covers once the storm has passed.
Inspect Your Trees
Check trees regularly for anything that looks out of the ordinary, including any possible diseases (e.g. Black Knot Disease). If you notice that your tree exhibits symptoms of possible illness, such as holes and cavities, call a professional tree service immediately. Weaker trees are more vulnerable to weather damage and, in turn, can be destructive to your property.
Once the storm no longer poses danger, inspect your trees for any signs of damage. This may include:
- Broken or uneven canopy
- Holes, decay, cavities, or splits in the trunk
- Broken or hanging branches
- Splits in the branches
- Pulled or exposed roots
- Leaning trees
If you spot any sign of damage, call a professional tree service to avoid any further damage to the tree and surrounding area. An arborist can determine if the tree can be saved, or if it must be removed.
For a professional arborist, call Dave Lund Tree Service and Forestry Co Ltd. You can reach us at (905) 884-0511 (for our Richmond Hill location), (905) 775-1020 (for our Bradford location), or toll-free at 1-800-363-0511. We offer service to the York region, King, Thornhill, Aurora, Markham, and Newmarket, Ontario.