EFFECT OF THE ELEMENTS ON YOUR TREES

The crown of a tree has much vulnerability to weakness. Their strength is put to the test during storms with whipping winds, and the weight of ice and snow or those combined. It is important to take preventative measures by pruning your tree correctly before the winter hits considering that more catastrophic breakage can occur during the season.

We all know that lightning strikes are a common cause of devastation to trees and property. Up until recently, there was no practical way to prevent such a disaster. Lightning protection systems, however, are becoming more widely used ad can be installed to protect trees that the homeowner wishes to preserve as well as prevent damages and property loss. Lightning can also cause irreparable jagged breakage that will attract water pooling which produces rot, invites fungus & disease and will ultimately claim the life of the tree. Some trees are also experiencing the effects of a scorching summer sun combined with drought. Their extremities are browning and dying, often causing a rash of deadwood in the crown which is not only displeasing to look upon but is the beginning of a hazardous situation. The trees had produced this foliage and branches dependent upon a water source that has not been available in more recent years. Deadwood in the crown of a tree is most hazardous because it has the tendency to break and fall into the tree as a "hanger" or a "widow maker". This hung-up wood and debris is often not recognized until it is too late. It is important that an aerial lift is utilized when working on such a project in order to ensure that all hazards are removed from areas of the tree that are unable to be reached with other methods of pruning such as climbing.