Storms can leave a trail of destruction, and one of the biggest concerns for homeowners is dealing with storm-damaged trees. Whether it’s fallen branches, leaning trunks, or uprooted trees, knowing how to handle the situation safely and efficiently is crucial. Here’s what you need to do when a storm leaves your yard in chaos.
Assess the Damage and Safety Risks
Before you start clearing fallen branches, take a step back and assess the damage.
- Look for hazards such as downed power lines, cracked branches hanging overhead, or trees leaning dangerously.
- Determine if the tree can be saved. Minor limb loss is often not a problem, but a tree with a severely split trunk or over 50% canopy loss may not survive.
- Stay away from unstable trees. If a tree is uprooted or partially fallen, it could shift unexpectedly and cause injury.
If you notice large branches or entire trees that could fall at any moment, call professionals like Saul’s Land Management LLC right away.
Remove Small Debris and Branches
Once you confirm that it’s safe, you can begin clearing smaller debris.
- Use gloves and protective gear while handling broken branches and leaves.
- Trim smaller broken limbs using pruning shears or a hand saw.
- Pile branches and leaves in designated yard waste areas for disposal or composting.
- Avoid cutting large branches that are under tension, as they can snap unexpectedly.
For extensive tree damage, it’s best to leave the cleanup to professionals.
Handle Large Broken Branches and Partially Fallen Trees
If major limbs are broken or a tree is partially uprooted, extra care is needed.
- If the tree is still standing but has lost significant branches, an arborist can assess if pruning will help it recover.
- A leaning tree with exposed roots may not be stable and could fall with the next storm. It might need removal.
- Large broken branches that are still attached to the tree should be removed professionally to prevent further damage.
Tree removal can be dangerous, so if you’re unsure, contact Saul’s Land Management LLC for expert tree services.
Prevent Future Storm Damage
While you can’t control the weather, you can take steps to protect your trees from severe storm damage.
- Regularly trim trees to remove weak or overgrown branches.
- Check for signs of disease or decay, which can make trees more vulnerable to storms.
- Plant trees in locations where they have room to grow without interference from power lines or structures.
- Support young trees with proper staking to help them develop strong root systems.
A little preventative care can reduce the risk of tree damage during the next big storm.
When to Call a Professional Tree Service
Some tree damage is too dangerous or complex to handle on your own. Call Saul’s Land Management LLC if:
- A tree has fallen on your home, driveway, or power lines.
- Large branches are hanging or split but not yet detached.
- You suspect the tree has internal damage or disease.
- The tree is uprooted but still partially attached to the ground.
For expert tree removal, trimming, and emergency tree services, call Saul’s Land Management LLC at 865-280-0428 or visit them on Google Maps. Don’t wait—ensure your yard is safe today!
