3 Questions You Might Have About Winter Tree Damage
Winter can be deadly to your trees. If your tree has sustained damage due to winter temperatures or weather, it should be trimmed immediately to remove the damaged parts or removed completely. If you fail to do this, the tree becomes a liability and limbs or the tree itself can fall over unexpectedly. If you have trees, here is some information you should know about trees and winter damage.
How Can Winter Weather Damage Your Trees?
Winter can be a deadly time for trees. There are numerous elements in play that can damage or kill your tree. This includes sudden temperature fluctuations, extreme cold temperatures, heavy rains, strong winds, large amounts of snow and ice or even damage done by animals looking to protect themselves from frigid temperatures. Winter weather elements can damage the trees roots, trunk or branches.
What Are the Signs of Tree Damage?
If your tree was damaged by winter, there are numerous signs that a tree may show you. Branches on the tree may be broken, sagging or hanging low. The trunk may have cracks present in it. If the roots are damaged, your tree may begin to lean or previously buried portions of the roots may be exposed. Lastly, when spring hits, and you expect to see your tree thriving, you may notice a significant lack of leaves or growth and/or the leaves that do grow in may have brown scald marks, caused by freezing temperatures.
Can a Damaged Tree Survive?
The answer to this question varies based on several factors including the type of tree, the age of the tree, the type of damage done and how extensive the damage is. If there is damage to the root system, it is unlikely that a tree will survive. But if the damage is only to the crown of the tree, there is a better chance that your tree will survive. Pruning and tree trimming will be needed to help clear dead growth and make way for new growth more frequently if your tree is damaged and you are trying to save it.
If your tree is not looking healthy after the winter months have passed, it is best to visit resources like http://www.scottlanestreesrv.com to contact a tree care specialist. They can take a look at your tree and determine the extent of the damage and whether tree trimming can be done to help save the tree or whether the tree needs to be removed completely.