Book Tree Services Now For Spring

Have you checked your trees recently? Hopefully you have them a good once-over after our most recent cold front! Luckily, ice accumulations were low on trees themselves and we have not run into any major damage to homes or properties as a result of tree failure in the ice storm. However, the cold weather had us thinking about another big stressor on trees: spring storms. As we head into that much wetter, spring storm season, now is a great time to check in on your trees before high winds and heavy rain arrive.

Identify Hazardous and Overextended Limbs

Start by looking for dead, cracked, or overextended limbs that could break during a storm and cause damage. Overextended limbs are limbs that are too long, heavy on the end, or otherwise create too much weight for the junction of branch and tree to bear. As soon as high winds or ice storms hit, overextended branches are usually among the first to break. These hazardous branches are often easier to address before weather becomes unpredictable.

Watch for Structural Weakness and Past Damage

It’s also important to evaluate for other signs of structural weakness, such as trunk leaning, exposed roots or soil heaving at one side of the base of the tree. These may all indicate possible conditions for tree failure. Previous storm damage is another key factor to consider. Trees that have lost large limbs, been struck by lightning, or suffered impact damage may appear to have recovered on the outside, but internal decay can develop over time. This damage isn’t always obvious, yet it can significantly increase the risk of unexpected limb or whole-tree failure during future storms. Catching potential risks early allows for thoughtful planning instead of emergency response.

Canopy Management for Storm Resilience

Even if you don't have any critical concerns for your trees, staying up to date with selective pruning can help open up the canopy, allowing wind to pass through more easily and reducing stress on major limbs and trunks. The goal here is not to take out too many branches, or too much foliage, which can be detrimental to the tree. Proper canopy management considers good structural balance and how the tree will continue to grow in its environment. Professional canopy management will allows trees to be as resilient as possible when stressful weather hits.

Consider What’s at Risk Below

Consider exactly where a broken branch or tree will fall. Is it an overextended branch above your car? Does your tree look healthy, but lean towards your home? Since it is leaning in the direction, if it did fall, would your home be damaged? These are crucial questions to ask when you are thinking about whether or not to call in professional tree service help with hazardous limbs and trees. Taking time now to assess and prepare your trees helps protect your home, your property, and the health of your trees before those big spring storms come in.

-Wimberley Tree Service