Post-Storm Tree Care: What to Do After the Storm Passes

When a tropical storm or heavy rainfall hits, your trees face serious stress. From high winds and flooding to soil erosion and fallen branches, storms can wreak havoc on the health and stability of your landscape. After the storm passes, it's essential to assess your trees' condition and take the necessary steps to ensure their recovery.

Here are some key post-storm tree care reminders to help you protect and restore your trees:

1. Assess Tree Damage Safely

Before rushing to inspect your trees, make sure the area is safe. Downed power lines, broken branches, and unstable trees can pose serious hazards. If in doubt, consult with a professional arborist to avoid accidents.

When assessing your trees, look for:

Broken or Damaged Branches: Check for branches that are cracked, split, or leaning heavily. These can be dangerous if left hanging and may also affect the tree’s health.

Tree Leaning or Shifting: If a tree is leaning or has shifted position, it may have experienced root damage or erosion. Pay attention to any trees that seem unstable.

Root Exposure or Soil Erosion: After heavy rains or flooding, tree roots can become exposed, especially in loose or poorly-drained soil. This leaves the tree vulnerable to further damage or toppling.

2. Get Hazardous Branches Removed

After a storm, broken, hanging, or weakened branches pose a significant risk, both to your trees and your safety. Do not attempt to prune large or high branches unless you're experienced and equipped. It's best to hire a certified arborist for this.

3. Check for Signs of Storm Damage to the Trunk

Sometimes the force of winds or flying debris can cause physical damage to a tree’s trunk. Look for:

Cracks, Splits, or Wounds: If the trunk is severely damaged, the tree may struggle to recover, leading to long-term health issues. Deep wounds can expose the tree to disease and pests.

Bark Stripping: If the bark has been stripped off in large sections, it could expose the tree’s inner tissue to infections. Small areas may heal over time, but large injuries often require professional assessment.

If the trunk has been damaged, consult an arborist to determine whether the tree can be saved or needs to be removed.

4. Inspect the Root System

Roots are crucial for the stability and health of your trees, so if the storm caused flooding or erosion, the root system may have been compromised. 

After the storm, check for signs of:

Exposed Roots: Flooding, heavy winds, or soil erosion can wash away soil around the roots. Exposed roots may dry out or become more susceptible to pests and disease.

Root Rot: If the tree has been submerged in water for an extended period, you may notice signs of root rot, such as a foul smell or soft, discoloured roots.

If your tree’s roots are exposed or compromised, avoid adding heavy soil directly over them, as this can further stress the tree. Instead, contact an arborist to determine the best course of action.

5. Don’t Rush to Over-Prune or Top the Tree

While it's important to remove hazardous branches, avoid excessive pruning or topping your tree in the aftermath of a storm. Over-pruning can stress a tree that’s already under duress and lead to long-term health problems. Trees need their canopy to help with recovery and healing.

Remove Only the Damaged or Dangerous Branches: Focus on removing branches that pose immediate risks, but leave the rest to recover naturally.

Let the Tree Recover: Trees can heal on their own, so avoid cutting back too much foliage. This will allow them to retain energy for regeneration.

6. Support Leaning Trees

If a tree is leaning due to the storm, you may need to provide additional support until it regains its stability.

Staking or Guying: For young trees or those with shallow root systems, staking or guying can help provide support. Make sure the support system is not too tight and allows some movement, which is essential for root development.

Mulching: Apply mulch around the tree’s base to retain moisture and prevent soil erosion around the roots. However, avoid piling mulch directly against the trunk, which can promote rot.

7. Monitor Tree Health Over Time

Even if a tree looks okay immediately after a storm, it’s essential to monitor its health in the following weeks and months. Pay attention to the following signs of stress:

Discoloured or Drooping Leaves: If the leaves start yellowing, wilting, or falling off prematurely, it could indicate the tree is stressed or suffering from root damage.

Fungal Growth: A common issue after storms is fungal infections, particularly if there has been significant moisture around the tree. Look for unusual growths, like mushrooms at the base or fungus along the branches.

Increased Pest Activity: Storms can create a favourable environment for pests to thrive, especially in damaged trees. Watch for signs of pest infestation, such as holes in leaves or discoloured foliage.

Final Thoughts

Post-storm tree care is essential for minimising damage and promoting recovery. While your trees may seem resilient, they still require attention to ensure they bounce back from the storm’s impact. By assessing damage, pruning safely, supporting roots, and monitoring health, you can give your trees the best chance for recovery.

If you’re unsure about the damage or need professional help, don’t hesitate to contact a certified arborist. We’re here to help guide you through post-storm tree care and ensure your trees remain healthy and strong.