Ice Storms and Trees
The Hudson Valley dodged a bullet earlier this week, an ice bullet. Not the type of “ice bullet” that conspiracy theorists claim exists, but a real threat from trees heavily laden with ice. Thankfully we were spared the sort of damage that many of you may remember from the winter of 2008-09.
Brittle tree species normally suffer the most damage during heavy icing after a winter storm. Silver maples, poplars, birches, willows, tulip trees, and pines are tree species that simply can't handle the weight of the ice slurry coating limbs and needles. These brittle trees tend to be fast growers, and fast-growing trees often develop weak, V-shaped crotches that easily split apart under the added weight of ice. Because these trees usually take some damage from storms throughout the year, internal rot and decay lead to weakened trunks and limbs.
Although not as common as rain or snow, the Hudson Valley does get its fair share of ice storms and there are a few steps that can be taken to help protect your trees, property, and loved ones during an ice storm.
Before a storm hits you should have your trees inspected by a Certified Arborist to determine what potential hazards exist. Poorly attached limbs, limbs that are over extended or tip weighted and dead limbs are all issues that can be corrected by routine pruning. Also, limbs that may contact power lines or buildings when weighted with ice should be pruned to minimize the potential for power outages or structural damage. Trees with narrow V-shaped crotches also have a very high potential for breaking. These structural defects can be supported by using cables and bracing to minimize the strain on the branch union. Fertilization and proper insect and disease management will also keep trees healthy and vigorous which, in turn, allow them to better weather storms.
In the event that trees are damaged during a storm, there are a few steps that can be taken to help minimize the long term effects of broken limbs and branches. Again, a Certified Arborist can help you determine what course of action should be taken. If the tree is to be preserved and damage is relatively slight, prune any broken branches back to a suitable lateral branch, and let the tree begin the process of wound repair.
If over 30 to 50 percent of the main branches or trunks are severely split, broken, or mutilated, the benefit of extensive repairs is questionable, and the “sucker” growth that sprouts from broken and pruned limbs will leave a tree that is not only unsightly but also unsafe. Also, significant loss of limbs and leaf sites will drastically reduce the tree’s photosynthesis capacity and, ultimately, its ability to recover and survive. Trees that are this severely damaged are best removed.
By taking a few precautionary steps to ensure the safety of your “green assets” and loved ones, you can sit inside during the next winter storm, safe and warm with a cup of hot chocolate. Enjoy the beauty of snow and ice covered trees without worrying about the weight of the ice and snow causing considerable damage to your landscape.
Angelo Schembari
Certified Arborist
Integral Tree and Landscape
845-758-1498
www.integraltreeandlandscape.com
