Forestry -
Ice Storm Damage
Saving Landscape Trees After an Ice Storm
When a tree is severely damaged, the first question that must be answered is:
"Is it worth saving?"
Here are tips to help you from foresters with the Cooperative Extension
Service, University of Arkansas:
Take the time and effort to save a tree only if a substantial portion of the
tree remains intact and if, when repairs are made, the tree will still be
attractive and of value to the property owner. This is particularly true if the
tree has brittle wood and a branch structure which makes it vulnerable to
additional damage from future storms.
Other factors to consider in determining whether or not a tree is worth
saving include its age, species, growing location, the value it adds to the
property and sentimental value.
When all of these are considered it may often be more desirable to replace
the damaged tree than perform extensive repairs. If you are not sure, see a
local nurseryman, professional tree service company or consulting urban forester
for assistance. If it is determined the tree is not worth saving, remove it as
soon as possible.
Pine trees that are severely bent will have cracks in the bark and resin flow
which will attract beetles. Bent hardwoods are less likely to be attacked by
insects or diseases. Small trees under 15 feet tall usually recover and
straighten.
Here are some very simple guidelines: Determine whether the tree can be
repaired, or if it should be removed completely. If the main trunk is completely
broken or if the tree is uprooted, it should be removed.
Remove broken branch to the nearest branch or to the tree trunk. Never leave
a ragged stub. Remove large branches with three cuts. This will prevent
splintering and peeling.
Make the first cut upward from the bottom of the branch about 12 inches from
the next branch. Cut about halfway through the branch, or until the saw begins
to pitch. Make the second cut 5 or 6 inches further out, and continue cutting
until the branch falls. With a third cut remove the stub cleanly without
peeling.
Contrary to popular belief, it is not necessary to treat trunk and limb
wounds with tree paint. Research shows that painted areas can actually lead to
increased rot and decay due to trapped moisture. Take care during the salvage
operations.
Do not bang up or damage any standing, live trees because wounds of this type
are ideal for invasion by decay-causing fungi. And, in the case of pines,
wounded trees become and remain very attractive to this summer's and next year's
bark beetles. Wounded pines could be the center of a bark beetle buildup next
year, so it would be prudent to avoid damaging pine stems at any time of year.
Contact: Tamara Walkingstick (501) 671-2346.
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