No matter where you live, you will experience the occasional storm and between strong winds and heavy rains, the trees on your property may be at risk. While trees in certain areas of the country are more susceptible to storm damage than others, everyone should take steps to protect their trees. If you know a storm is coming, take some time to quickly confirm your trees are ready. Following a bad storm, consider having a certified arborist in Austin examine your trees to make sure they weathered the storm successfully.

Recognize Trees With High Risk

The first step to preparing your trees for a storm is to figure out which ones are the most vulnerable. Generally speaking, a newly planted tree will be more vulnerable to falling over in a storm, as will any trees in an area that was cleared within the last few years, whether to build a home or create open area. The trees in those areas may not have fully adjusted to the changed conditions. Trees are also more likely to fall in a storm if they sit in gravelly, loose soil. In terms of characteristics of the trees themselves, look out for rot in branches or roots, lopsided roots, trees that have a lot of small twigs and branches, or trees with other damage.

Regularly Check Your Trees

Get in the habit of taking a closer look at your trees at least once a year, if not more, or hire an arborist to do this for you. During the inspection, pay attention to everything from roots to branches to the trunk and canopies. If you notice anything that can indicate damage or a disease, have an arborist take a look as sick or weakened trees are less likely to survive a storm.

Ensure Proper Fertilization

You can also do your part to make sure that your trees always get enough nutrients. These nutrients are necessary for the trees to remain strong and withstand strong winds. This is as simple as using mulch around the base of your tree, fertilizing them when necessary, and watering them consistently. If you aren’t sure what type of care your trees need to stay strong, consult your arborist.

Trim Back Branches From Your Roof

Tree trimming is another regular task that can help your plants withstand any storm. During typical tree trimming, you cut off the weak or dead branches or those with diseases. Since these are the parts of a tree least likely to withstand high winds, removing them reduces the chances of any damage to the tree. Keep in mind that a dead branch that comes off a tree in high winds could also potentially damage other trees or structures on your property depending on where the wind takes it and at what speeds.

Watch The Trees In Mild Winds

Another excellent idea is to head outside or look out your window the next time your area experiences mild winds without a true storm. See how the trees react to this and if they seem to be moving around more than necessary, make an appointment with an arborist to see if there is an underlying issue causing weakness.

Source:

http://www.dof.virginia.gov/tree/care/storm-trees-prepare.htm