Tue Feb 09 2010
Our recent ice storm has had the usual impact on trees and shrubs. Many homeowners are venturing out to assess damage and are not certain which plants need additional attention.
Larger trees typically pose the greatest concern. In most cases, for safety's sake, this will involve hiring a professional. Climbing trees with chainsaws is extremely dangerous and should not be approached lightly.
When looking for an arborist, look for someone who is licensed, insured, and preferably certified. In the Lexington directory arborists are listed in the yellow pages under tree services.
If damage poses no immediate threat wait for warmer temperatures to address pruning. Frozen wood is much harder on tools and saws, dulling blades quickly. Broken limbs and branches should be pruned with a proper pruning cut.
This generally involves removing what's left of the branch to the point it joins a larger branch or fork. Clean, properly made cuts will grow over the wound faster and minimize the risk of decay (see below for proper pruning information).
Pay close attention to utility lines. If any part of the plant is dangerously near or in contact with lines, call a professional. Smaller trees and shrubs can often be safely pruned from ground level. The goal would be to make clean cuts below any broken or damaged branches. When determining where to cut, bear in mind new growth will occur in the direction of the uppermost bud or branch you leave behind. This can be used to direct new growth and balance the shape of a damaged plant.
Make a partial cut from the bottom of the branch about one foot from the swollen ridge where the branch joins a larger branch or trunk.
Make a second cut from the top of the branch outside the first cut. This cut will sever the branch. The first cut will prevent the bark from peeling or splitting into the remaining tree.
Make the final cut just outside the swollen ridge or branch collar at the point of attachment. Make sure to leave this collar intact as it is important to the health of the wound.
Plants that have been weighed to the ground with accumulated ice are best left to thaw completely before attempting to stake or tie them into position. Since cold temperatures make many plants brittle I would suggest leaving these tasks till warmer weather if possible. Many plants will recover without further assistance.
Once the danger of snow and ice has passed plants that have not resumed a normal shape can be loosely tied or staked into an upright position. Evergreens that have splayed open, arborvitae and many broadleaved plants, can have main branches tied loosely together to restore their shape. It is critical when tying or staking to use materials that will not scrape, cut in to, or otherwise damage the plant.
If trees are damaged to the point they need to be replaced, avoid species with weaker wood that are known for storm susceptibility. This list includes Silver maple, river birch, poplars, ornamental pears, elms, willows, white pines and other widely planted trees with rapid growth rates.
If you need additional information contact Kim Cowherd at the Franklin County Extension Office at 695-9035 or me at the Fayette County Extension office at (859) 257-5582.
Comments
By Posting to this site, you agree to our Terms of Service Be polite.
Inappropriate posts may be removed.
State-Journal.com doesn't necessarily condone the comments here, nor does it review every post.
Login above or Register to comment.
0 Total Comments Home | Back
Copyright Frankfort Publishing Co., LLC 1995-2010. All Rights Reserved.
Content may not be republished without the expressed written consent of the publisher.
Content may not be republished without the expressed written consent of the publisher.
Dix Communications