Pre-Storm Assessment and Tree Protection

Trees provide many purposes to a property and the environment, such as clean air, natural ventilation and shade. With such vital roles, they must be protected. Major threats, storms and strong winds can cause harm to trunks and branches.  Severe damage can lead to the complete destruction of a tree.

Falling trees during storms can cause property damage and in extreme cases loss of life. Some property owners feel the need to cut downs trees, but you don’t have to lose any of your trees to protect your property.

Below are some actions you can take to minimise the effect of storms on your trees and reduce potential damage.

1. Maintain your tree's health
Keep an eye on things. Have your trees inspected regularly, so that any problems can be addressed early on. A tree’s health has a lot to do with its stability and strength. Watering and fertilising on a regular basis are two methods to ensure the growth of a healthy tree. Also, make sure to check the soil’s quality as this where a tree gets its nutrients. A qualified and experienced arborist can undertake to do this efficiently and economically. 

2. Routine pruning
Pruning trees are necessary, to remove weak or deceased portions of the tree. Weak or brittle branches can fall off during a storm and cause serious damage. However, you must be careful not to overdo pruning, as severely pruned trees can fail in strong winds. Do not top or lop your trees.

ArborCare Qld recommends you perform your tree management using recommended Australian Standard AS4373: Pruning of Amenity Trees. Untrained individuals may advise you to cut back (or lop) all of the branches, on the mistaken assumption that it will help avoid breakage in future storms. However, qualified arborists say that ‘topping’, is extremely harmful and unhealthy for your trees.

3. Protect the roots
The roots of a tree anchor itself to the ground and significantly provide stability. Trees with deep and wide-spread root systems do not blow over easily during strong winds. Avoid cutting or damaging the roots in any way and be cautious with any excavation or soil work near the trunk. 

4. Seek help from the professionals
If you have concerns about the stability or health of your tree, don’t hesitate to contact one of our qualified arborists who can address your questions and concerns. We also provide a wide range of tree services, such as a pre-storm assessment to identify trouble areas for your peace of mind.

Do you have concerns about your trees? Contact us at ArborCare Qld. We are a team of qualified arborists dedicated to providing quality tree care services, professional qualified advice and other types of tree work.