Preventing Storm Damage: Why Late-Winter Pruning Is Key

Each year, Georgia sees its share of severe storms bringing damaging winds, large hail, and sometimes, even tornadoes. While bad weather can happen any time of year, the most severe storms tend to take place in the spring. And though we can’t control the frequency or intensity of these weather events, we can prepare our properties to better withstand their impact.

One of the most important ways to safeguard your home against storm damage is pruning your trees. Here, we explain the importance of late-winter pruning in preparation for spring storms and help you identify at-risk branches in your yard.

Why Prune in Winter to Prevent Storm Damage?

Tree pruning is the removal of damaged or undesirable limbs. While it can be performed to control or direct new growth, it’s also one of the best tools we have to protect against property damage caused by trees. In fact, broad-leaved trees that have been pruned properly have a 73% survival rate when faced with hurricane-force winds, compared to 47% for unpruned trees. By eliminating hazards proactively, we can reduce the risk of large branches and limbs falling on your home or surrounding structures.

Pruning can be done any time of year if necessary, but winter is ideal because:

• Most trees are dormant, and cutting is less stressful for them when they’re inactive.
• Insects and diseases are also less active. In other seasons, they might target trees that are vulnerable from fresh cuts.
• Branches are bare, giving tree care professionals a better line of sight for precise cuts.
• Spring storms are just around the corner, making winter an ideal time to prepare.

How to Identify Trees that Need Pruning

Look for Dead, Dying, or Diseased Branches

In many cases, you’ll be able to identify at-risk trees even with a quick inspection. Dead branches often have peeling bark, brittle wood, and lack of leaf growth during the growing season. Disease, on the other hand, usually manifests as discoloration, cankers, or unusual spots on your tree’s bark.

Scope Out Structural Issues

In addition to the obvious signs of branch issues above, some structural problems could cause limbs to become weak or imbalanced, making them more vulnerable to storm damage. Look for branches that are crossed or rubbing against each other, which can create wounds. Sharp angles are also more likely to form splits, as are branches with weak or narrow crotches. Lastly, significant leans are a sign of an already-strained root system, which could become further compromised with flooding or high winds.

Consider Other Safety Hazards

Branches that are broken, hanging, or otherwise hazardous should be removed during seasonal pruning. Additionally, consider each tree’s proximity to key features on your property, including utility lines, structures, driveways, or walkways. Even healthy trees may need pruning (or potentially relocation, if possible) when high-value structures are within close reach.

Schedule a Tree Pruning Service With Premier Tree Solutions 

As specialists in emergency services, Premier Tree Solutions is here to help you prepare your property for the worst. From pruning to complete tree removal when necessary, our arborists can assess your trees and recommend the best solution for your needs. And since Mother Nature can be unpredictable, we’re here to assist you with post-storm cleanup, too. To get in touch, call 404.252.6448 or send us a message online.