Tree Planting and Care

1. It's a Keeper

If damage is relatively slight, prune any broken branches, repair torn bark or rough edges around wounds, and let the tree begin the process of wound repair.

Some examples:
An Easy Call A mature shade tree can usually survive the loss of one major limb. The broken branch should be pruned back to the trunk. In the months to follow, large wounds should be closely monitored for signs of decay. How to repair
Minor Damage Although the tree has been damaged, enough strong limbs may remain on a basically healthy tree to make saving it possible. How to repair
Too Young to Die Young trees can sustain quite a bit of damage and still recover quickly. If the leader is intact and the structure for future branching remains, remove the broken branches and let the tree close over the wounds and recover itself. How to repair

Don't Try to Do It All Alone

Some of your trees may have damage that's too close to call, or may have hidden damage. To help with such questions, a tree professional may be needed to help you decide what to do about your trees. Don't hire just anyone who shows up at your door following a storm. Look for qualified arborists in the phone book or by contacting or city forester.