Florida-based tree care experts give advice on dealing with a tree that has been uprooted.
How to Save An Uprooted Tree
Trees can be showpieces of a yard. They offer aesthetic value as well as practical value, providing shade to protect against the heat of summer and a leaf screen for privacy. Trees tend to have long lives, and we often become as attached to them as we do the homes they stand by. Therefore when a tree is blown down in a storm, the damage may be more than physical. There may be an emotional toll as well. But all is not lost. There may be hope for a fairly young tree and an arborist can help.
Why Do Trees Uproot?
While a thunderstorm or other violent source of wind is the primary reason that trees are uprooted, there are usually many other factors involved. That is why some trees uproot while sometimes nearby ones don’t. Most of these factors have to do with the soil or with the tree itself. Here are a few examples:
- Size of tree crown
- General health of the tree
- Soil saturation
- Fungal infection in tree roots
- Change in soil quality
- Presence of clay in soil
- Erosion
When Younger, Smaller Trees Uproot
If a younger tree is taken down by a wind storm, there is a chance that the tree can survive. Special care must be taken with the tree, and of course, contacting a reputable tree service company is the best way to ensure that your tree gets the care it needs.They can monitor Here are some basic pieces of advice for those who have an uprooted tree:
- Keep Roots Covered: Shovel some damp soil onto the exposed roots. The heat of the summer sun can kill a tree in a day if its roots dry out.
- Minimal Movement: Just like a person with a spinal injury, trying to move the tree without help may result in more damage. Avoid bending or twisting the tree as you return it to an upright position.
- Support: Make sure the dirt is packed in around the roots to help hold the tree back in place.
- Water: Give the roots plenty of water to help them heal.
- Prune: Help the tree by pruning the dead or broken branches.
- No Fertilizer: Fertilizer can actually be harmful to the already damaged roots.
Following these steps can help avoid transplant shock which can be fatal to the tree. Work closely with a tree care expert in order to monitor your tree health.
When Older, Larger trees Uproot
Unfortunately, it is often impossible to set a large downed tree upright again. This may be due to the sheer size of the tree or the fact that the extensive root system has been damaged beyond the point of sustainability. Though it may be heartbreaking, the best option is likely going to be tree removal. Before a tree falls is the best time to have an arborist visit and make an assessment of tree health and a tree risk assessment.
About Any Town Tree
Any Town Tree is about more than just tree trimming and tree removal, we are about tree health care. We offer fast emergency service when you need it. Call today to take advantage of our free estimates.