Wild Weather and Tree Safety- What You Need to Know

Wild Weather and Tree Safety- What You Need to Know

With the warmer months set to take off and the arrival of spring sending our gardens into a frenzy of activity, now is the perfect time to take stock of any pain points in the garden- before they present a problem. With storm seasons only increasing in unpredictability every year, the best approach to storm proofing your trees is an early one.

Those in heavily treed areas will likely be well versed on maintaining their homes for the bushfire and storm season. Generally, these practises will give occupants enough time to evacuate their home in the event of an emergency.

Generally, winds are the biggest predictor of damage. They may bring with them the scent of jasmine, or a floury- sneeze inducing coating of acacia pollen- or worse, the limb of a snow gum during a tumultuous weather event. Here’s how to check the latter doesn’t occur.

While mostly short and stout trees need no assistance during a storm, it’s trees that exhibit any of the following and are close to dwellings which are a cause for concern:

  • Exposed roots
  • Recently transplanted
  • Include hollow limbs or trunks
  • Include compromised structures in any way

A quick visual inspection prior to stormy weather should include assessing your tree for discoloured leaves or full sections of discoloured foliage, peeling bark or soft spots around the base of your tree. Regular pruning may not be essential for some varieties, but a tree growing too close to your home may require pruning to keep you and your family safe. A qualified arborist will be able to tell you if your trees pose a risk to your safety at these times of the year.

While not every garden will need a storm season pre-inspection, it’s important to remember that complacency about the health of your trees can become problematic- all it takes is a little of your time and some common sense around particular varieties and the structural pain points they may present.

If you’re not sure about how to storm-proof your garden, be sure to reach out to the team of professionals at Daryl’s Tree Care for more information on preserving your garden during these challenging seasons. Call us on (03) 9878 4418 today – for free advice and quotes- our qualified arborists are happy to help!