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Tree species that are more brittle in structure normally take the brunt of heavy icing after a winter storm. Many of the elms, poplars, birches and willows are tree species that just aren't able to handle the excessive weight of ice and snow build up on tree limbs, leaves and needles. Pine Trees usually take a beating during major winter storms in and on the edge of their natural range.
Tree's that are brittle usually tend to be rapid growing. Because of this desirable rapid growth and the idea of these tree's providing a quick shade solution, trees with weak characteristics are sought out by property owners. Planting a weak rapid growth tree can only exacerbate potential limb breakage and tree failure.
Rapid growth trees of this nature will usually develop vulnerable V-shaped crotches that can easily be split apart under the weight of snow and ice due to a storm. Since these types of trees will usually fall victim to damage from storms each year, internal tree rot and decay (which unfortunately cannot always be seen) can ultimately lead to weakened trees.
Tree's with multiple leaders are the most vulnerable species to fall victim to ice and snow damage in the winter months. Tree's that are smaller should be wrapped and larger, older tree species with wide spread leaders should be cabled.
Tips To Avoid Tree Storm Damage
1 - Plant only strong trees in your landscape. Strong tree species such as Maple Balsam Fir or Oak are better able to resist the strains caused by snow, ice or wind. Refer out our Kingston Area Native Trees page for other option when selecting a tree.
2 - Do not plant brittle tree species. In areas that heavy ice and snow can be a potential problem. Species of tree's that are brittle can include willow, elm, pine, poplar and silver maple.
3 - Try to avoid planting of tree species that will keep their leaves into the later fall and winter in ares that heavy winter storms are known to be common.
4 - Wrapping smaller multi stalk trees. Secure the stalks and limbs using strips of cloth or nylon stockings 2/3 of the way above the crotches of the limbs and trunks. Obviously you'll need to remove the wrappings in the early spring so as not to bind new growth and/or avoid girdling of the limbs and trunk.
5 - Commit to a yearly pruning program Prune weakened or dead/dying limbs and branches from crowns. If your not comfortable with pruning hire an expert tree service.
6 - Hire a professional arborist Particularly for valuable or large wide-spreading trees to strengthen a tree by cabling or bracing any weakened limbs and crotch splitting.
Ensuring Quality Care for Your Tree
When you need a professional tree care or tree removal service on your commercial or residential property, call the Kingston Tree Service experts at Bert's Tree Service. You’ll receive a free service estimate on your tree project.
Call us anytime at - (613) 376-6015
