Is Your Tree at Risk? Protect Your Property This Storm Season

Winston-Salem was recently recognized as one of the top five cities most resistant to extreme weather. Thanks in part to the city’s Urban Forestry Program, our geographical location, and our low frequency of severe weather events, Winston-Salem residents often enjoy a sense of security when it comes to natural disasters.

However, even the most prepared cities aren’t immune to Mother Nature’s destructive power. With hurricane season upon us, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicting an active storm season, it’s important to be prepared. By identifying trees most at risk during storms, you can help protect your home and family.

Key Takeaways:

• Certain tree species are more susceptible to storm damage due to weak wood.
• Tree location, soil conditions, age, and overall health significantly impact a tree’s ability to withstand storms.
• Regular tree inspections, proper pruning, fertilization, and addressing pest and disease issues keep trees healthy, protecting them from potential storm damage.

Trees Most Vulnerable During Storms

Not all trees are created equal when it comes to weathering the storm. Certain species and conditions make some trees more susceptible to damage than others. Understanding these factors is essential for protecting your property and helping keep your community safe.

Weak-Wooded Trees

Trees with weak wood are naturally more prone to breakage during high winds and heavy rain. Common culprits in the Winston-Salem area include:

• Silver Maples: Known for their rapid growth and graceful form, silver maples have brittle wood that is easily fractured.
• Bradford Pears: Popular for their early spring blooms, Bradford pears were once a popular choice for ornamental landscaping. But thanks to their invasive nature and tendency to break apart in storms, North Carolina offers a bounty for the removal of this tree.

Tall and Slender Trees

The height and slenderness of a tree can significantly increase its risk of toppling during a storm. Tall and slender trees that are newly exposed to wind, perhaps due to the removal of surrounding trees, are particularly vulnerable. Trees that grow in sheltered conditions, surrounded by larger trees, often develop tall, slender forms as they compete for sunlight. On the other hand, those exposed to consistent wind tend to grow thicker, stockier trunks.

Windthrow occurs when a tree’s root system is unable to anchor it against the force of the wind. Common examples of trees susceptible to windthrow include:

• Pines: With their tall, straight trunks and extensive surface area, pines are particularly vulnerable to windthrow.
• Cedars: Like pines, cedars often reach impressive heights, making them prime targets for storm damage.

Trees with Defects or Damage

Even healthy trees can be compromised by underlying defects or damage, and these weaknesses can often go unnoticed until it’s too late. You should be watching for:

• Decay: Decay in branches or trunks creates weak spots in trees. Areas of decay become brittle, posing a serious hazard during high winds. Decayed wood can also act like a sponge and absorb water during heavy rains, adding significant weight to an already compromised tree part.
• Cavities: Hollow areas in the trunk or branches can significantly reduce a tree’s strength. Various factors, including decay, disease, or injury, can cause these cavities.
• Root Rot: Decaying roots diminish a tree’s ability to anchor itself in the ground or provide the necessary water and nutrients to maintain its overall health.
• Leaning or Tilting: A tree leaning or tilting excessively may have compromised root systems or structural issues. These trees are at higher risk of falling during a storm, potentially causing more significant damage to nearby trees and structures.
• Extensive Root Damage or Exposure: Exposed or damaged roots can significantly reduce a tree’s stability. Construction activities, erosion, or improper planting can cause root damage and increase the risk of windthrow.

Factors That Increase Risk of Storm-Related Damage from Trees

In addition to tree species, several environmental factors can increase your risk of storm damage.

Tree Location

The placement of a tree can significantly influence its vulnerability to storm damage. Trees growing in exposed areas, such as hilltops or open fields, are more susceptible to high winds. However, trees situated near buildings, power lines, or other structures are more likely to cause property damage if they fail.

Soil Conditions

The type of soil in which a tree is planted plays an important role in its stability. Clay soils, for example, can become saturated during heavy rainfall, reducing root anchorage. Sandy soils, closer to the coast, may offer poor support, especially in windy conditions.

Tree Age and Health

Older trees, while often majestic, can be more prone to storm damage. As trees age, they become less vigorous and have weak spots in their wood. Additionally, they often have bigger, heavier branches that can break more easily, increasing their susceptibility to breakage. With a greater surface area exposed to wind, older trees are more likely to be uprooted or suffer significant damage during a storm. Trees that are stressed by drought, improper pruning, or insect infestations are also more likely to succumb to the forces of a storm.

How to Prevent Storm Damage from Trees

It should come as no surprise that a healthy tree is better equipped to withstand the rigors of a storm. Investing in proper tree care can significantly reduce the risk of storm damage and protect your property. Some of these essential tree care services include:

• Proper Pruning: Regular pruning removes dead, dying, damaged, or poorly structured branches, improving a tree’s overall structure and health.
• Fertilization & Soil Injections: Trees require essential nutrients for optimal growth and development that sometimes the soil lacks. Our fertilization and soil injection services provide the necessary nourishment for your trees.
• Watering: Consistent and adequate water is so important, especially during dry periods. Underwatering can cause roots to grow too close to the surface in a desperate attempt to find water, making a tree more susceptible to windthrow during storms.
• Pest and Disease Management: Early detection and treatment of common pests and diseases help prevent tree decline. Our tree care experts can identify and address problems before they cause significant damage.
• Regular Tree Inspections: Consistent monitoring by a certified arborist helps identify issues early on. Regular inspections can help prevent problems from escalating and ensure the long-term health of your trees.

Godspeed Is Your Partner in Tree Care and Storm Preparedness

Remember, a healthy tree is your best defense against property damage and potential hazards. By understanding the factors that make trees vulnerable to storm damage and prioritizing proactive tree care practices, you can significantly increase your trees’ chances of surviving the next storm.

Godspeed is committed to preserving Winston-Salem’s beautiful trees. Our team is dedicated to saving trees whenever possible through expert care and treatment. However, we understand that sometimes trees pose a serious safety risk. In these instances, we provide safe and efficient tree removal services to protect your property and loved ones.

Don’t wait for a storm to strike. Call Godspeed Tree Service at 336-399-8348 for a comprehensive tree inspection and to develop a customized care plan to protect your investment. We will weather this storm season together!