Summer storms in the U.S. can bring a range of challenges.
Some years we get a lot of thunderstorms and strong winds, and other years we get a bit less. Some areas of the country are hit harder than others, depending on their potential for hurricanes or tornadoes. Sometimes there is hail and flooding that come along with gusty blows.
While we can never fully predict what Mother Nature will bring, adequately preparing for summer storms can help protect homeowners in case this is one of those more extreme years.
Let’s take a look at how tree trimming can assist in reducing costly storm damage on your property and what steps you can take now so your trees can stand stronger against storms when they come through.
Late summer tree pruning isn’t just about making your trees look tidy. The timing is important because trees are slowing their growth, which helps them heal more easily from cuts before winter arrives. Pruning too early in the season can put stress on a tree, while waiting too long can leave it open to disease or frost damage.
Pruning at this time lets you get rid of weak or dead branches that might snap during strong winds or heavy rain. It also strengthens the tree’s overall structure, which plays a big role in storm damage tree prevention. A tree that has been properly pruned is more stable, less likely to fall, and better equipped to handle severe weather.
For more information on maintaining tree health and preventing damage, visit the U.S. Forest Service – Forest Health page, https://www.fs.usda.gov/science-technology/forest-health.
Pruning trees correctly involves science and art at the same time. For homeowners, knowing the basics can certainly help, but for more risky jobs, getting professional help is usually the best way to go. Pruning services Niagara Falls NY can help you with tree trimming and pruning while leaving them safe.
Start your late summer tree pruning with tree assessments in detail. Report and remove any troublesome and storm-damaging dead, diseased, and damaged tree limbs. Discard any tree limbs that are aggressive toward each other and those growing in toward the center and rubbing together.
Now you are ready to sharpen your thinning technique while removing more than necessary. Canopy thinning is especially important and helps control cross-winds. Strength and health are gained by shape pruning. Remember, it is all about the shape.
Using the right tools is crucial for effective late summer tree pruning. Sharp, clean pruning shears, loppers, and saws are essential. Dirty tools can transfer disease from one tree to another, so always sterilize them before and after use.
Safety is equally important. Make sure to wear protective equipment – gloves, goggles, and helmets, as required. If you are not trained or do not have the appropriate equipment, do not try to climb to the heights of the branches. The experts in pruning trees, or arborists, can be hired so that you do not injure yourself, and they will complete the tree pruning in the right manner, and you will not need to take the risk.
Your trees, as part of your estate, will require attention in addition to pruning, and that includes the proper watering, fertilizing, and periodic pruning inspection. Trees in good nutritional health are not only going to stand but also resist the impact of damage in a storm.
Always be watchful for any signs of stress or a diseased tree, such as discolored foliage or bark, stunted and ugly growths, or the unusual. Addressing these and closing any gaps early will help prevent a small problem that may become worse as a storm approaches from becoming a serious risk. Proactive maintenance is the best way to prevent storm damage to the trees.
Not every tree is safe to prune yourself. Large trees or those with structural issues should be handled by experts. Large trees, or trees near power lines, should be passed to experts. Arborist pruning services Niagara Falls NY have the equipment, skill, and knowledge to handle these safely. They assess the tree and recommend pruning techniques to perform the work without damaging the property or risking injury to someone.
When a professional is hired, the tree’s pruning will be done in a way that the tree will keep its natural form and health. Weak, diseased, or long-term damage will occur due to improper pruning techniques. A certified arborist will ensure that your trees will be healthy, strong, and resilient to storms.
Taking the time for late summer tree pruning brings several advantages. It doesn’t just make your trees look better; it also helps them become stronger against harsh weather. Trees that are properly pruned are less likely to drop branches during storms, which lowers the chance of damage to your home, cars, or garden.
On top of that, healthy, well-cared-for trees can boost your property’s value. Buyers often notice trees in good shape, as they reflect that the property has been looked after. Pruning also promotes new growth for the following season, keeping your trees full, vibrant, and healthy.
If my trees are young, can I prune them in late summer?
Yes, but with care. Young trees are very sensitive, so do not remove much except dead and weak branches. Heavy pruning can impede the growth of young trees.
How often should I have professional pruning?
Most trees should be inspected and pruned by a professional every 2 or 3 years. Trees considered to be high risk for storm damage may require inspection every year.
What is the difference between pruning and trimming?
Pruning is the practice of removing dead, dying, or weak branches in order to keep a tree healthy and stable. Trimming, on the other hand, is the cosmetic shaping of the tree without regard to its structural integrity.
Will my trees suffer from pruning
Proper pruning does not hurt trees but rather provides them with strength to become healthier prior to storm season.
Can I just use home pruning tools?
Home methods suffice for small branches, but for bigger limbs or trees close to structures, it is best to seek out arborist pruning services Niagara Falls NY.
Caring for your trees in late summer is essential for storm damage tree prevention. Your trees will be storm-ready and strong with the proper pruning techniques, proper tools, and the required assistance of an expert. Adequately maintained trees are a pleasure to the eyes, but also protect your home, your family, and your community.
Whether you take care of the pruning yourself or call on arborist pruning services Niagara Falls NY, looking after your trees now can help prevent costly damage and repairs down the line. Following these tree care tips for storm season is a practical way to safeguard the long-term health and safety of your yard.
If you want reliable tree care, reach out to 10X Tree Services. Call 10X Tree Services today to help protect your property and keep your trees strong through the storm season (716) 599-TREE.