Atlanta Tree Service & Removal

Winter storms cause tremendous stress and severe damage to trees in the urban forest. Obviously, a snapped or downed tree should be removed. What about a tree that suffers minor damage? How can a homeowner tell if a tree is safe?

Assessing the Damage

• Minor damage - with only the smallest branches of the tree being injured - usually results in little or no permanent injury to the tree. All that is required is cleanup of the broken twigs and braches and perhaps a crown cleaning to resotre a pleasing shape.
• More severe damage - large broken branches, split crotches, removal of bark and splitting or splintering of the trunk - can be caused by strong winds and heavy ice storms. When a tree is severely damaged, the first question that must be answered is: "Is the condition of the tree such that keeping it is worthwhile?" A tree care professional should be consulted to answer this question.

"Most aborists will take the time and effort to save a tree only if the tree will still be healthy, atractive and of value to the property owner after repairs," explains Tchukki Anderson, BCMA and staff arborist for the Tree Care Industry Association. "A tree care expert may recommend removal of a tree that has brittle wood and a branch structure that makes it vulnerable to additional damage from future storms. Trees that have been topped by storms can be prime candidates for removal," says Anderson.

Other factors to consider when determining if a tree is worth saving:

• Species - Is this type of tree prone to pests and other problems?
• Age - Is the tree mature or over-mature?
• Vigor - What health condition was the tree in before the damage?
• Value it adds to the property - Does the tree still have value, even if partially damaged?
• Sentimental value - Is the tree a living monument?

If a tree is not worth saving, remove it as soon as possible. If it is not removed and the tree dies, it could become a hazard tree. Removal of hazard trees is dangerous to the tree crew and requires special techniques, addiing to the cost.

Treating the tree

Assuming the decision has been made to repair the tree, the next question is: "Am I capable of repairing the damage myself or should I seek professional help?" Major repair will undoubtedly require the use of a chain saw and climbing equipment. Unless one is experienced in the use of such equipment and comfortable working off the ground, it would be best to have the work performed by a competent professional. The Tree Care Industry Association maintains a list of member companies in your area. Inspect your trees for damage after a storm. If a tree has hazards, such as broken, hanging limbs or a split branch union (sometimes called a branch fork), you should have a reputable tree care company give an assessment. This is important because you could be held liable if the hazard branch or tree falls and damages property or causes personal injury.

What should you do?

Take notice of the largest living assets on your property. Look up! Check for any large dead limbs or what might seem to be excessive dead wood in the canopy (small dead or some dead tips is not generally unusual). Look down! Large mushrooms around the base of the tree is a sign of root decay and rot. This is not good and likely would require removal. Don't let ivy grow on the tree - it will eventually suffocate it. These are just a few things you can easily do, but don't hesitate to call A Southern Tree. Our Southern TreeGuard program might be just the ticket to help you be proactive and not reactive.