Most years, snow and ice aren’t serious concerns in Atlanta. But this trend may be changing, as the area has begun seeing at least a few snowstorms and freezing-cold days each winter.
You may be concerned about how snow on trees can impact their health. Georgia plants are used to humid, balmy climates, but are they prepared to handle freezing temperatures? Here’s what you need to know from Life’s Tree Doctor, offering expert tree services in Atlanta, GA.
How Winter Weather Affects Trees
Understanding snow and ice tree risks can help you look for signs of damage throughout the changing seasons. Winter weather can pose all of these concerns:
- Snow accumulation on trees can weigh down the limbs, placing strain on them and increasing the risk of breakage.
- Ice can also add significant weight to branches, leading them to fall.
- Freezing temperatures can crack the bark, impede its ability to transport nutrients, and damage new growth. You may notice dead leaves or branches after periods of extremely cold temperatures.
Some species are particularly vulnerable to winter weather. If you notice any dying limbs or signs of disease before December hits, this could be a sign that your species won’t hold up well through the winter. Meanwhile, strong branch attachments and low surface area of lateral branches indicate that a tree can stand strong throughout the changing seasons.
Shielding Your Trees Against Snow and Ice
You can’t control Atlanta’s often unpredictable weather, but you can take measures to protect your plants against whatever the winter throws at them. The following tips can help mitigate the effects of ice and snow on trees:
- Spray icy branches with cold water to melt the ice. Avoid hot water, as this could shock the bark and cause more damage.
- Gently shake the trunk to knock snow off the limbs and reduce the tree snow load stress. You can also use a long broom to reach higher branches. Be careful if any ice has accumulated, as you do not want to knock ice blocks onto yourself in the process.
- Mulch around the roots before winter. Mulch or woodchips can help insulate the soil against freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall.
- Schedule a pruning service each year to remove dead or dying branches. This ensures that healthy branches have access to maximum sunlight, airflow, and nutrients during the harsh winter weather.
Let Life’s Tree Doctor Prevent Tree Damage From Snow
One final step you can take to mitigate the impact of winter weather is to contact an arborist as soon as you notice damage from snow on trees. At Life’s Tree Doctor, we’re available 24/7 for emergency services. Call us today at 678-543-5443 to schedule a free estimate for service in Atlanta, GA, or to request fallen tree removal.
