How to Storm-Proof Your Trees to Protect Your Property

As storm season approaches in Madison, WI, many homeowners are getting ready – and so should you! They’re cleaning gutters, checking drains, and bringing in outdoor furniture. But there’s one crucial part of storm prep that often gets forgotten: trees.

Without proper tree care and preparation, you can face some serious property damage. Strong winds, heavy rain, and wet soil can turn beautiful trees into dangerous hazards. Falling branches and uprooted trees can cause expensive damage to your home or even put your family at risk. 

The good news is that with some planning and professional help, you can lower these risks and keep your property safe all year round. Just make sure your preparations include calling in a professional arborist. They will assess, prune, and take other measures to get your trees ready for almost any disaster.

Here’s how to get your trees ready for storm season:

Look for Warning Signs

Sometimes, the biggest tree problems are the ones you can’t see immediately. Even trees that look healthy on the outside might have hidden weaknesses. Over time, things like dry weather, bad pruning, packed-down soil, or damage from past storms can cause issues inside the tree. This makes it more likely to fail during strong winds or heavy rain.

So watch out for these six signs of potential tree damage:

1. Cracks in the trunk or big branches
2. Dead or hanging branches
3. Trees that are leaning more than usual
4. Raised soil or exposed roots around the tree
5. Mushrooms or other fungi growing at the base of the tree
6. Thin leaf coverage or dead sections

If you notice any of these signs, your tree might be at risk of falling over or breaking off. A certified tree expert can perform a thorough check to see how dangerous the situation is and suggest what to do next. It’s better to address these issues now rather than waiting for a storm to cause damage.

Prune Your Trees 

When done correctly, pruning helps air flow through the tree and encourages healthy growth. It also reduces the chance of branches breaking off during a storm.

Good pruning can make the difference between a tree that’s ready for storms and one that’s a future problem. Trees that can withstand storms have strong branch structures and enough space from buildings, cars, and power lines. Professional pruning helps achieve this by:

• Removing dead, weak, or crossing branches
• Thinning out thick areas to reduce wind resistance
• Raising low branches that hang over walkways or roofs
• Fixing structural problems early in a tree’s life

It’s best to leave this job to professionals like Accurate Tree Services + H&H Arborists who have the right training and tools.

Protect Mature Trees

Large, established trees are the pride of many Madison, WI properties. They provide cooling shade during our hot summers, enhance the beauty of our landscapes, and can even increase property values. However, when storms roll in, these gentle giants can become potential hazards.

There are ways to keep your big trees safe and secure, including cabling and bracing. These techniques help reinforce weak spots in your tree’s structure. An arborist can install subtle, durable support systems that work with your tree’s natural movement.

Remember, these are not DIY solutions. Professional installation and regular check-ups are key to keeping your trees safe and healthy for years to come.

Invest in Soil Care

Did you know that many trees fall during storms because of problems underground? Healthy roots are crucial for keeping trees upright in harsh weather. Here’s how soil care can help strengthen your tree’s foundation:

• Soil Aeration: Loosens compacted soil to give roots room to grow.
• Mulching: A proper layer of mulch helps regulate soil moisture and protects surface roots.
• Drainage Improvement: Making sure water doesn’t pool around your tree’s base.
• Root Zone Protection: Getting safe distances for parking or storing heavy items near trees.

By taking care of your soil, you’re giving your trees the best chance to stand strong against Madison, WI‘s toughest storms.

Get a Tree Assessment & Property Evaluation

The best defense against storm damage is a good offense with a thorough tree risk assessment. When performing this kind of inspection, a certified arborist will:

• Thoroughly examine all your trees
• Spot potential problems you might not see
• Suggest trimming or support systems if needed
• Help you prioritize which trees need attention first

Whether you have one special tree or a whole yard full, we’ll give you a clear plan to keep them safe.

Stay Ahead of the Storm With Professional Tree Care

Don’t leave your trees’ health to chance. Get a professional tree risk assessment from an expert arborist. By taking care of your trees now, you’re protecting your home and family from potential dangers.

With Accurate Tree Services + H&H Arborists, you don’t have to worry every time the wind picks up. Our experienced team will check your property, identify any risks, and help you take smart steps to keep your trees and home safe all season long.

Ready to storm-proof your trees? Call Accurate Tree Services + H&H Arborists today or fill out our contact form here to get started with an inspection.