After the storm

A windstorm like the one that hit the Seattle area last year (12/14/06) can leave the trees in a neighborhood looking like there’s no hope for the future. Many trees may have fallen, or lost large branches. If you are concerned about the safety of your trees that are still standing, recognize that they have weathered other storms in the past. That said, it’s always a good idea to have trees inspected to insure that their structure or stability has not been compromised by the high winds. Make sure the individual that evaluates your tree is qualified to do so. Desired qualifications are ISA Arborist Certification or the individual being a member of the American Society of Consulting Arborists (ASCA).

Never top a tree unless it has been damaged beyond repair and you are planning on retaining it for wildlife habitat. If your trees have been damaged, consider the following before writing them off as a total loss:

Some questions to ask:

• Other than the obvious damage, is the tree generally healthy? Trees have amazing recovery capacity, so if it has not experienced major structural damage, it will probably recover.
• Are major limbs or the main leader broken? The larger or more important the limb, the harder it will be for the tree to recover.
• Is at least half of the tree undamaged? A tree with less than 50% of its foliage remaining may not be able to sustain itself in the future.
• How large are the wounds? The larger the wound, the less likely the tree can recover and be structurally sound. Very large wounds invite insect infestations and decay.
• Is the tree appropriate for the site upon which it is growing? If it is a location that will not support the tree, it may be best to remove it.

Arbor Barber Tree Service provides many other Tree Services at an affordable rate.

Residential/Commercial/Municipal Tree Care Experts

Certified Arborists PN 5892-A

Certified Tree Risk Assessors PN 7030-A

Licensed, Bonded, and Insured in the State of Washington
Contractor Number: ARBORBL92MN