Whenever there is a coming storm, a tree is always in great danger. This might mean danger from the rage of the wind, from pounding hail and rain, from the heaviness of ice on the leaves and branches, or from the sear of lightning. One may also need to remove a tree that threatens life, as well as property, during and after a violent storm. The solution for the tree to survive is to take good care of it prior to a storm and find a place where it can grow properly.
Almost all trees will face at least one storm in their lifetime. The following are some tips on how to reduce the great impact of a storm on the property and trees in one’s backyard. Avoid planting trees that are too close to buildings, near wires, on steep river banks, and on shallow soils. Avoid planting brittle species such as elm, box elder, willow, silver maple, and poplar, in places where breakage is always a problem. If ice storms are common in a certain place, avoid planting trees that hold their foliage into late autumn. Refrain from cutting or damaging roots when excavating around trees. Start a yearly pruning programme while the trees are still young. Prune the weakened or dead limbs, as well as disproportionate branches from treetops. For particularly expensive trees, ask help from a specialised tree surgeon to make a tree stronger by putting up wiring or bracing on split crotches and weak limbs. In order for the tree to stay healthy, water it every day and provide fertilisers.
|
