Many of us learned firsthand in December how much damage an ice storm can do. Here are some tips on minimizing damage from future storms.
For those of you considering new trees for your landscape, it's a good idea to think about species that are resistant to ice damage. Limiting the number of trees that are susceptible to ice damage will reduce the risk to your property, power lines and the trees themselves.
Some trees that are resistant to ice damage are American Sweet Gum, Arborvitae, Bald Cypress, Black Walnut, Ginkgo and Catalpa.
Once you plant young trees, prune them regularly from an early age to remove structurally weak branches and decrease lateral branch surface area. This will help make the tree more resistant to both ice and strong winds. To limit property damage, trees located near buildings and power lines should be pruned and checked for hazards. For large trees, contracting a tree surgeon to do the pruning is a good idea for both safety and aesthetic reasons.
When storm damage does occur, remove any broken and hanging branches as soon as possible. Broken branches should be pruned back to the branch collar. Loose bark should be cut back to where it is solidly attached.
Susie Barney, Smith County Master Gardener
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