Pacific Northwest Storms and construction processes can be devastating to surrounding trees if they are not protected. They can be saved if the damage is dealt with promptly. Unfortunately, help is often sought too late. If you have trees affected by recent storms or storm and/or construction, consult a professional arborist right away.

Assessment:

Your arborist will preserve the trees if possible; check for and reduce or eliminate potential hazards, install cabling and bracing if required, and reduce or remove the trees if required for safety.

Treating Trunk and Crown Injuries:

May involve pruning split or torn branches, installing cabling and bracing to restore structural integrity, and repairing damaged bark and wounds.

Irrigation and Drainage:

Must be properly restored following storm and/or construction, to maintain an adequate water supply to the root zone of trees. Proper irrigation may do more to help recovery than anything else.

Mulching:

Is one of the simplest, least expensive and most effective things you can do for your trees. A three to four inch layer of wood chips, shredded bark or pine needles should be spread as far out as landscaping will allow. Do not apply mulch deeper than four inches, and do not pile it against the trunk.

Improving Aeration of the Root Zone:

By drilling holes and vertical mulching will eliminate compaction of the soil and depletion of the tree’s oxygen supply. Holes are drilled 2-4 inches in diameter, 3 feet on center throughout the root zone, and 12 inches deep. Sometimes the holes are filled with mulch.

Should you Fertilize?

Most experts recommend you do not fertilize your trees during the first year after storm and/or construction. Damaged roots need time to be repaired, and nitrogen fertilizer may stimulate top growth at the expense of the roots.

Monitoring for Decline and Hazards:

Despite your best efforts, you may lose some trees to storm and/or construction damage. If a tree dies, it may be an immediate hazard requiring removal. Watch your trees for cracks in the trunk, split or broken branches and dead limbs. Look for signs of internal decay such as cavities, carpenter ants, soft wood, and mushroom-like growths on the trunk, root crown or along the major roots. If you suspect problems, consult a certified arborist for a professional assessment.