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Category Archives: Tree Damage and Tree Removal

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How Much Ice is Too Much? Preventing Ice Related Tree Damage in Winona, MN

Posted on November 28, 2022 - 1:38 pm by

Ice and snow are unavoidable during winter in Winona, MN, but in a general sense, the majority of your trees will stand up to ordinary amounts of inclement Minnesota weather. Unfortunately, not all of the winter weather in Minnesota is ordinary. When ice and snow begin to build in earnest, it’s possible that your trees will suffer. As winter settles in, Maier Tree and Lawn recommends watching for signs of potential tree damage to your trees, even if they seem sturdy enough to stand up to a few rogue icicles.

Heavy ice and snow can be a burden

Ice damage can be a problem for everything on your property, from shrubs and dormant plants to saplings and full-grown trees. Even the sturdiest oak can be left with some serious health issues if coated with enough ice. The cold is only one part of the equation that makes up ice damage. Sometimes weight is the real killer for ice-damaged trees, leading to breakage and cracks when it accumulates too much. But, regardless of the cause, the bark, branches, and root system can all become subject to tree damage if the winter weather gets wild enough.

With enough ice, the branches of your trees can break or entire trees can be toppled overnight. This is especially true for trees that may not have been pruned effectively or have pre-existing health issues. The weight of ice is nothing to sneeze at, and if it lands and hardens in the right spot, it can become a serious tree killer.

Tree Damage

Preventing ice damage can be complicated, and not just because it’s not feasible to stand outside with a hair dryer and hope it does the job. Ice-damaged trees can be a hazard to people as well as property. If a branch snaps under the weight of the ice, it basically becomes a projectile. Because of the risk to you and your tree, it’s best to leave ice damage mitigation to the professionals.

If you notice any visible buildup of ice on your trees or any sign of weather-based damage, contact Maier Tree and Lawn to consult with our tree damage professionals. Our team can help evaluate damage, institute protection, and offer in-depth tree damage support.

If you’re struggling with ice damage or winter tree damage, reach out to Maier Tree and Lawn immediately at (507) 454-7000, or visit our website here for more information. Winona, MN tree owners can call today to find out more.

 

Prepping Your Winona, MN Trees for a Harsh Winter

Posted on October 13, 2022 - 12:16 pm by

The idea of getting your property, and especially your trees, “winter ready” may seem redundant if you’re a Winona, MN resident. After all, aren’t native trees and plants built exactly for Minnesota’s climate? The answer to that question is more complicated than a simple yes or no. While it’s true to a degree that native plant life is better suited to harsh winters, severe winter weather still poses a risk to your greenery that could result in lasting tree damage. At Maier Tree and Lawn, we recommend against leaving tree health to chance. Instead, consider evaluating your trees for potential weaknesses before winter really sets in.

Sudden shifts in weather can have serious consequences for your trees

Many native Minnesota trees can withstand an impressive amount of cold weather, but all it takes is a single wind or ice storm to strip away natural defenses and leave trees vulnerable. For instance, sudden and severe shifts in temperature may happen so quickly that trees aren’t able to adapt. This may be due to drought-like conditions before the freeze, or because of unusual weather trends such as winter heat spikes and subsequent drops. These situations can result in tissue and surface damage that may lead to a decline in tree health.

Heavy ice and snow can push a tree past its breaking point

Winter tree damage can also come in the form of physical breakage. The weight of heavy, wet snow can do a number on even the sturdiest Minnesota trees. No matter how well suited to cold weather a species may be, enough weight in just the wrong place could topple a tree or break thick branches and trunks. Plus, it’s not uncommon for tree damage to worsen gradually once a break has occurred. In this manner, a healthy, mature tree can be left with lasting damage.

Our professionals can help prevent tree damage and potential tree loss

With these risks in mind, prepping your trees for winter in the Midwest and preventing damage can come in a variety of forms. It all depends upon the health, species, and status of your trees. Tree wrapping, pre-winter pruning, pest or disease control, or changes to your weekly care routine may all be solutions to a future problem. Maier Tree and Lawn’s tree damage professionals can help you decide which route to take to ensure that your trees stay healthy year-round.

If you’re interested in fall tree health support or would like information on addressing winter tree damage, Maier Tree and Lawn can help. Contact our tree care professionals today at (507) 454-7000 or visit our website here for more information on our services. Don’t wait for winter before making a tree plan tailored to your Winona, MN property.

 

 

Winter Tree Damage and Your Winona, MN, Trees

Posted on December 23, 2021 - 2:20 pm by

Winter has settled in for Winona, MN, residents, and with the seasonal transition comes the annual challenges for plants and trees across the state. While most of our native plant life is suited to withstand our frigid weather, some conditions are too intense for even the hardiest plant. For trees struggling to survive in the midst of winter, Maier Tree and Lawn provides winter tree care tips and support to help prevent tree damage and ensure that your property makes it through to the big melt.

Impact of Winter Weather

Cold Minnesota winters are a powerful equalizer in nature. Even the sturdiest plants and landscapes can be impacted by ice damage and other winter side effects, and sometimes the damage isn’t even apparent until it’s already severe. Constant icy wind can cause dryness and root freezing, and unless you’re watching closely, these forms of tree damage can be difficult to spot with the naked eye.

Tree Damage

Winter damage doesn’t always come from cold alone, though ice and low temperatures can do a number on trees and branches, winter also poses a threat that other seasons can’t match: weight. The weight of ice or snow on the branches of your trees can be a catalyst for major tree damage. With enough weight, even otherwise sturdy branches can snap, and in some cases, entire trees can topple. There’s a subtle balance that winter needs to strike in order for plants and trees to survive: enough snow to insulate against the cold, but not so much snow that it begins to snap and break trees.

Because of the huge variety of natural factors that play into winter tree care, relying on a certified arborist may be the best way to prevent lasting tree damage. Some damage can be prevented with wrapping, external supports, and professional pruning or cabling that helps protect the tree.

Winter lawn care requires careful, professional support, particularly in regard to the risks that the weather presents to people as well as trees. Rather than putting yourself or your trees at risk, rely on the tree damage mitigation experts with Maier Tree and Lawn. If your Winona, MN, trees need winter support and protection, our care teams can be contacted at (507) 454-7000 or by visiting our website here for additional information.

Major Storm Damage and Your Winona, MN, Trees

Posted on October 25, 2021 - 4:22 pm by

Trees can withstand many of the hazards posed by Mother Nature without batting her metaphorical eye, but sometimes the wrong combination of force and pressure is enough to do some real storm damage. For Winona, MN, residents, the experts at Maier Tree and Lawn can evaluate your trees and help you decide what steps to take to preserve and/or maintain them.

Major storm damage may manifest in the forms of broken limbs, gouged or cracked trunks, uprooting, or even burns. While any of these injuries pose clear threats to the tree itself, they can also create hazards that make it unsafe to approach the tree or can create the risk of further damage to your home or your property. Falling branches and toppling trees can be unexpected and extremely dangerous. If, following a storm, a tree on your property is leaning precariously or appears to have branches jutting out on unnatural angles, you should request a tree consultation that provides a complete evaluation without risking your safety.

Depending on the extent of the storm damage, you may feel compelled to write off the tree as a lost cause entirely. However, unless the tree has been completely demolished by the storm, a professional tree consultation can help you determine the best course of action for you and your tree. During a tree consultation, our experts review the integrity of the tree as well as judge whether or not the damage is irrevocable. In some cases, even serious surface tree damage can be treated.

Trees that have sustained storm damage can be dealt with in several productive ways, but the key is to ensure that they’re handled safely by a professional. If the tree is, in fact, incapable of recovering, during the course of a tree consultation our experts can help direct you through a safe and complete tree removal. Regardless of the course of action you choose, the professionals at Maier Tree and Lawn can help guide you through each step.

If any of your Winona, MN, area trees have sustained serious storm damage, Maier Tree and Lawn can help. Contact us today at (507) 454-7000 or visit our website here to schedule a tree consultation or receive additional information on our tree support services.

Identifying Subtle Tree Damage in Rochester, MN.

Posted on July 12, 2021 - 1:35 pm by

Tree damage isn’t exactly a one-size-fits-all scenario. It can manifest in dozens, if not hundreds of ways. Depending upon the species, the season, and the age of the tree, you have to stay observant to everything, from obvious breakage to an overabundance of pests. Maier Tree and Lawn’s tree health experts remind tree owners that it’s important to remember that some tree damage isn’t quite so obvious. Watching for these indicators of subtler tree damage may be the difference between healthy growth and withering trees on your Rochester, MN property.

Noticing a large number of leaves falling from a healthy-looking tree is one sign of a change in tree health. It’s important, however, to look beyond the leaves when you’re concerned about the health of a tree. Specifically, examining and noting any damage or changes on the trunk itself. Tree bark acts as a protective shell for your trees, but it can also be an indicator of tree health. Check the trunk semi-regularly for gouges, stripped bark, discoloration, excessive brittleness, fungus, holes, or strange textures such as spongy spots. Spotting any of these concerns early and requesting a consultation can be a great way to mitigate further tree damage.

The angle of your tree is also something to keep a close eye on. This is especially true after significant blunt damage or a severe windstorm. It’s possible for a tree to be pulled up and dislodged, even if you don’t have a full tornado on your hands. Being proactive when you see a new tilt, lean, or sway in your trees can help catch hazards and root damage before it becomes worse. After flooding or significant rain, it’s possible for trees to suffer from root rot and death. If a tree appears to be leaning significantly, be sure to contact a tree health expert before getting too close on your own. With enough of a lean, the tree could be a serious hazard.

It’s always best to err on the side of caution when there’s a new injury or existing tree damage appears to be spreading. Even if it appears minor on the surface, there could be a deeper problem that just hasn’t made itself apparent. Watch for new fungal growth, pest nests, or discoloration around the base of the trunk as well. If any of these become apparent don’t hesitate to contact a tree health professional.

If you have concerns about the health of one of your Rochester, MN area trees, the tree health professionals with Maier Tree and Lawn are here to help. Reach out today for a consultation at (507) 286–8733 or by visiting our website here for more information.

Reacting to Tree Damage After Severe Winter Weather

Posted on October 21, 2019 - 1:38 pm by

Winter in Winona, MN, can be tough on your trees, sometimes even in ways that you don’t expect. Being a tree owner in the winter months can feel like a bit of a vacation from more hands-on spring, fall, and summer tree care, but the reality is that your trees are just as susceptible to tree damage if not more so in the midst of winter storms.

 

Maier Tree and Lawn’s tree care professionals are experts at identifying and rectifying severe and moderate tree damage. Your job as a tree owner is to understand when you can take measures yourself and when it’s time to ask for help.

 

Physical damage from wind is a very real possibility during the winter months just as it is in other seasons with turbulent weather. Though you may not have to contend with tornadoes during the snowy seasons, there are still plenty of high-powered storms that pack a hefty punch. Your trees may lose bark, branches, or even sustain significant trunk damage. Even if you aren’t dealing with a full-fledged blizzard, winter winds still have enough push and pull to do some serious damage.

 

Winter tree damage is possible even without strong winds thanks to extremely low temperatures and ice buildup. Both of these can contribute to damage to the flesh or roots of the tree or lead to excessive dryness and breakages. Though trees do achieve some level of dormancy (depending upon the species), that doesn’t make them entirely invulnerable to severe weather. This type of tree damage can occur rather suddenly as the temperatures drop, and can be intensified by the addition of heavy snow.

 

While snow may appear soft and fluffy, it’s easy to forget how much sheer water weight it can contain. A light dusting won’t have much of an impact on your tree care needs, but once it starts to pile up, tree damage can occur rather quickly. Brittle branches can bend quickly under increasing weight, and smaller trees can even sway or fall under extreme snow conditions. Spotting these symptoms early is vital for keeping all of your trees upright and healthy.

 

If your Winona, MN, area trees have been impacted by winter tree damage or you’re in need of expert cold-weather tree care, contact Maier Tree and Lawn at (507) 454-7000 or visit our website for more information today. Breaks and cracks aren’t necessarily a death sentence for trees, but getting them the tree care they need can help ensure they survive until spring returns.

Treating Your Trees for Storm Damage in Winona, MN

Posted on July 23, 2019 - 8:09 am by

Summer is the time for wild storms in Winona, MN, and that can be bad news for even the toughest trees on your lot. Storm damage has the potential to catastrophically injure trees in mere moments, and without some emergency tree first aid, you could be left with trees that just can’t survive the trauma.

 

Contacting Maier Tree and Lawn’s tree care experts is the best way to guarantee that your trees will get the care they need to make a full, post-storm recovery whenever possible.

 

Once the storm has passed and damage has become apparent, tree owners must resist the urge to jump into action. Hasty choices after tree trauma can lead to further damage very quickly. One of the most common mistakes is over-pruning. Not only is pruning after storm damage dangerous, it’s also very easy to go overboard and cause additional, undue stress to the tree.

 

Instead of trying to perform all aspects of emergency tree care on your own, contacting tree care professionals is usually the best way to be sure that you’re maintaining your own safety as well as the health of your tree. Storm damage teams will assist with debris removal, loose branch removal, and also help you conduct an expert tree care assessment.

 

Tree care professionals can inspect cuts and abrasions to judge if your tree might be susceptible to further damage. Though they seem simple on the surface, trees are concealing a complex structure beneath their outer layers. If certain parts of a tree are compromised, it could prevent the entire tree from receiving the vital nutrients that keep it alive. Plus, damage to the bark or trunk can leave trees vulnerable to infestations or other pests. Tree care experts can identify these risk facts and assist with mitigation wherever possible.

 

Ignoring storm damage is one of the worst mistakes you can make if you want to keep your trees healthy and flourishing. If your Winona, MN, trees have been impacted by storm damage, contact the tree care professionals at Maier Tree and Lawn immediately at (507) 454-7000 to discuss your options.

Helping Your Winona, MN Trees Recover from Drought Stress in the Summer Heat

Posted on August 10, 2018 - 9:00 am by

The time of year for record heat is upon us in Winona, MN, which means sweltering temperatures have arrived for people and plants alike. Local residents may be eager to spend time in the cool shade of their trees, but don’t forget that those trees are bearing the brunt of that heat all summer long. Even the sturdiest trees can suffer ill-effects from hot weather, and without proper attention, too much heat can become deadly. If your trees are suffering from drought stress, contact the tree care experts at Maier Tree and Lawn for assistance to ensure your trees survive and thrive.

 

Some symptoms your trees may exhibit when suffering from drought stress include wilting leaves, fading colors, extreme browning and dry spots, and foliage loss. Some, if not all of these symptoms can be mistaken for early signs of tree death, but that’s not always the case! If you notice any of these signs during your tree care routine, your trees may be suffering from drought stress and require immediate attention.

 

As you may have guessed, providing adequate water is a big part of fighting back against drought stress. A little bit of sprinkling here and there, however, might not be enough to reverse the damage. Start by making sure you’re watering at the most effective times. Watering your trees during the peak heat of the day may seem like the best time, but due to the high temperatures, much of that water will evaporate before it has a chance to help. Watering during cool times of the day such as early morning or late evening are best and making sure to water the area around the tree thoroughly can help tremendously to maintain adequate moisture retention.

 

You can also help your tree by ensuring it’s not overworking itself to get nutrients and water. If mulch surrounds the tree, saturate it so the water will be available to your tree throughout the day. If there are lots of other plants surrounding the drought stressed tree, consider moving them to prevent competition. If your attempts to aid the tree aren’t helping, reach out for professional tree care assistance. The best way to fight back when your tree is showing serious signs of drought stress is to contact tree care professionals quickly before the damage becomes worse.

 

If you notice your Winona, MN trees are exhibiting signs of drought stress or other worrying symptoms during your tree care process, call Maier Tree and Lawn today at (507) 454-7000 or visit our website here for more information.

Tree Damage and Care After a Storm in Winona, MN

Posted on June 13, 2018 - 11:44 am by

Winona, MN has had some unseasonably wild April weather already this year. Along with the heavy snow, there’s also been a fair share of high winds. Though most residents can avoid the worst of this by bunking down under the covers, trees don’t have such a luxury. After a storm hits your area, our tree care experts with Maier Tree & Lawn encourage all tree lovers to perform a welfare check after the storm clouds clear away to make sure your trees are in tip-top shape.

 

Storms can be bad news for tree care even if they aren’t especially strong. A single gust can take down unsteady limbs, which can lead to further damage down the tree. Because of this, you should never walk underneath your trees during a major storm. It may seem like a refuge from heavy snow or rain, but in the right circumstances, it could be extremely dangerous. Tree damage can be hard to identify in clear conditions, let alone rough weather. Instead of leaving it to chance, keep a wide berth and wait for the winds to settle.

 

After the storm passes and it’s no longer risky to go outside, perform a welfare check from a safe distance. A basic welfare check for tree damage should be purely visual. Take note of obvious damage and breaks and make a note of things you’d like to ask a tree care professional. Tree damage may not always be obvious to the naked eye, but often a visual check is enough to tell that something is seriously wrong.

 

If your tree has been broken or is leaning in a precarious manner after a storm, call for tree care assistance immediately. Unfortunately, tree removal may be your only option in some cases of major tree damage, but there may be more options if the tree is mostly intact. If the tree is still in a dangerous state, then keep your distance until further assistance can be contacted.

 

If a tree on your Winona, MN property has been impacted by significant or minor tree damage, contact the tree care professionals with Maier Tree & Lawn to discuss options for your tree. Call today at (507) 454-7000 or by visiting our website here for more information.

Determining if Your Tree is a Hazard From the Tree Care Experts in Winona, MN

Posted on May 11, 2018 - 10:43 am by

Spring is a great time for tree care hobbyists in Winona, MN to evaluate the health of their trees. These tree care evaluations can include anything from eyeing them for a little trimming all the way to removing trees entirely. Though it can be a tough call to make, it’s possible that the rough Minnesota winter has rendered some trees hazardous and because of this, it would be safer to have them professionally evaluated and removed. If you’re starting the spring tree care season with some reservations about your hazard trees, the tree care experts with Maier Tree & Lawn have a few pointers of what to look for when deciding who should stay and who should go.

 

When you’re trying to identify hazard trees, start by looking for obvious structural damage. If you see branches hanging askew or entire sections looking lopsided, make a note and keep an eye on the spot. Depending upon the size of the tree it can be difficult to determine what makes a hazard tree and what is just a few damaged limbs but making notes of these things is useful for tree care professionals as well. Always be sure to play it safe though and avoid walking beneath the loose looking sections.

 

If there’s no obvious damage, the next step is to check for unusual leaning or swaying. Hazard trees are often identifiable by their lack of sturdiness in adverse weather. If you have a big old tree that seems to be shifting in the breeze, be sure to contact a tree care professional with your concerns ASAP. A wiggly tree is one thing; a downed tree on your car is another.

 

If you can’t quite pinpoint the issue and you’re concerned that the damage is more internal, you could also do a simple knock test to check for hollow or soft spots. This process can be difficult to do without experience and sometimes problem spots can be subtle. As soon as you feel like something is off during the tree care process, consider contacting a professional familiar with signs of hazard trees.

 

Hazard trees can be unpredictable, and with the windy spring weather coming into Winona, MN soon, be sure to deal with it sooner rather than later! If you’ve noticed an odd spot, hanging branches, or other signs that a tree on your property may be hazardous, contact Maier Tree & Lawn today at (507) 454-7000 or by visiting our website here for more information.

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