It’s early spring; time to survey the
damage that this exceptionally hard winter has produced. Many
shrubs may still be hiding under piles of frozen snow. Severed
tree limbs lie scattered across the landscape. It’s difficult
to know what to tackle first.
Start with your trees, they are generally the
most valuable additions to you property. As you survey the damage
ask yourself “Is this tree salvageable or should it be removed?”
If the damage is extensive, or you are unsure, hire a professional
for a consultation. Replacing a severely damaged tree with a younger
one, perhaps a type that you like even better, may be the best
solution.
If a limb is broken somewhere along its length,
or damaged beyond repair, enlist good pruning practices and saw
off the remaining piece at the branch collar being careful not
to cut into the trunk or leave a stub. Sometimes a fallen limb
may strip bark off the tree trunk. To repair this damage, cut
the ragged edges of the loose bark away from the stripped area
to firmly affixed healthy bark. Nature will take care of the rest.
If the trunk of the tree is split, the tree may still be saved.
For large trees, repairing this type of damage usually requires
cabling and bracing done by a professional. If the tree is still
young, the crotch may be pulled tightly together and tied or taped
until the wound eventually heals.
Follow the same instructions for trees, however,
most shrubs are resilient and slowly regain their shape as the
weather warms. If branches are bent but not broken, you may tie
them together to help them along. Do not tie tightly and remove
twine after about a year. Again, if the damage is severe, you
may need to replace the plant.
