Baltimore and Harford County have been hit pretty hard the last few weeks with intense storms, including winds in the 70mph range damaging trees, powerlines, homes and structures all over. A lot of you lost trees or sustained tree damage in these storms. So the question is, what do you do with a storm-damaged tree?
Determining whether to cut down a tree or leave it after storm damage has occurred depends on several factors. It’s important to prioritize safety, tree health, and property considerations. Here are some guidelines to help you make an informed decision:
- Safety Assessment: Safety should be the top priority. If the damaged tree poses an immediate threat to people, structures, or utility lines, it’s crucial to take action promptly. A severely leaning tree, hanging branches, or a compromised root system could indicate a hazardous situation. And these risks might not be obvious in a cursory look.
- Extent of Damage: Assess the extent of damage the tree has suffered. If the majority of the canopy is intact and the damage is minimal, the tree might recover with proper care. On the other hand, if a significant portion of the canopy is lost or the trunk is severely split, the tree’s chances of recovery could be limited.
- Tree Health: Consider the overall health of the tree before the storm. If the tree was already in poor health, the storm damage might exacerbate its condition, making it more likely to decline further or become a safety hazard.
- Location: The tree’s proximity to structures, driveways, cars, roads, power lines, and other important assets should influence your decision. If the tree’s falling could cause damage to property or infrastructure, removal might be necessary.
- Tree Species: Some tree species are more resilient than others to storm damage. Certain trees might bounce back from damage more effectively, while others could be more prone to decay and disease. Some trees are highly prone to splitting in a storm, including Bradford pears, Willow oaks, Cedars, Basalm fir, Willow Oaks, and White Pines. However, in a super intense storm, species isn’t the biggest factor.
- Recovery Potential: If the tree has a good chance of recovery, proper pruning and care might help it regain its health and shape over time. A professional can provide advice on necessary care and maintenance.
- Aesthetic Value: Trees contribute to the visual appeal of your landscape. Consider whether the tree’s removal would significantly affect the aesthetics of your property. Some trees also carry an emotional or sentimental value that would lead you to take steps to preserve the tree.
Get a complimentary Tree Assessment from one of our arborists. It’s recommended to have an experienced, licensed arborist or tree service assess the tree’s condition. They can provide an expert opinion on whether the tree can be saved, what interventions are required, or if removal is the best option.
In summary, when deciding whether to cut down a tree or leave it after storm damage, it’s essential to prioritize safety and seek expert advice. Manor Tree Service can provide insights tailored to your specific situation and guide you toward the best course of action. Located in Glen Arm, MD, we’d be delighted to visit your property and help you make the best decision for managing the trees on your property.