What to Do When Ice and Snow are Weighing Down a Tree
Milford, NH Homeowner Looks for Answers
Heavy ice and snow covering a tree’s branches can weigh it down. If the tree is bent, but not broken, by ice and snow it should recover in the spring. Resist the urge to shake the snow and ice off of the tree’s branches. This can cause the frozen branches to snap and break. Shaking the branch may also cause it to snap back and damage the tree’s circulatory system. If the limbs are not broken, leave the snow and ice to melt in the sun and the tree will most likely regain its shape in the spring.
A homeowner in Milford, NH had a pine tree that was covered in snow and ice from a recent New England storm. The tree was bending under the weight and the homeowner was concerned about the best way to care for the tree.
Do Not Shake Branches Covered in Snow and Ice
It can be tempting after a storm to shake the ice and snow off of your trees, particularly if they are bending under the weight. The best course of action is actually to do nothing, as this will give the tree a chance of bouncing back during the spring thaw.
Some Trees are More Prone to Bending Under Winter Snow and Ice
Certain trees seem to fare better during the winter months. Those that are well pruned, with any dead or dying branches removed, will have the best chance of making it through the winter without any lasting damage. Young trees can be susceptible to snow and ice, some even bending to the point where their tops are touching the ground. Occasionally, these young trees will break near the roots, making a springtime recovery unlikely. In other cases, when left alone the tree will regain its previous shape when it returns from dormancy in the spring.
The homeowner in Milford is heeding our advice and is leaving his snow-covered pine tree untouched. This should prevent any further damage to the tree, giving it the best chance of a healthy recovery when the weather warms.
Contact Souhegan Valley Tree Service in Brookline, New Hampshire at (603) 305-5223, to request an estimate to help keep your trees healthy and beautiful.
