Storms can ruin and devastate our lives. Often it takes weeks if not months for the repairs to get done and life turn back to normal. There are many outside plants and trees that do not make it. But some trees do have a chance and should be given ample time to recover. We will explain step by step how to help your trees after a storm hits.
Remove all hazards from your personal area.
Before starting your repair efforts make sure to remove all hazards from the area. This includes fallen limbs and debris. Clear all paths and areas around the house first. The trees are more patient than us and will wait for our efforts. If the objects are too big get your neighbors to help. Also make sure the trees or debris do not belong to your local government.
Remove all trees that cannot be restored
Trees ripped apart along the main trunk should be considered lost. But make sure you check with an ISA- Certified Arborist if you have any doubts about the damage.
Stake fallen trees
Often smaller trees, recently planted with trunk diameters less than 4 inches can be re-staked and put back into the ground. Larger trees that fell during the storm will probably fall again. Make sure to evaluate those larger, older trees in step 2.
Set up irrigation for stressed trees
Set up a good irrigation system to the damaged trees, be it a timed hose soaker, sprinkler system or manual effort. Make sure the roots get soaked well as they need extra water for regrowth.
Perform restoration pruning
Clean tree canopies. Remove stubs from broken branches on trees. They can let insects and rot into the tree if not cut properly. Better Homes and Gardens have a great article on this here. Excess live wood should not be removed
Allow time for recovery
Recovery is so important for these trees. Make sure to keep pests and other problems away from the tree so it can recover. Afterwards an approved arborist can perform proper restoration pruning.
The University of Florida has an excellent PDF resource filed with additional information on how to recover and restore your trees after a storm. We highly suggest you check it out if you own trees.
