Storms in Missouri are unpredictable; powerful winds, heavy rain, and lightning can cause significant damage to homes, landscapes, and especially trees. While many homeowners focus on securing their roofs and windows, one crucial step is often overlooked: preparing trees before the storm hits.
Proper preparation can significantly reduce storm damage and keep your property safe. It includes trimming, pruning, and stump removal in Springfield, MO. This proactive approach protects your home, prevents hazardous debris, and ensures that trees remain healthy and stable.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through essential steps to prepare your trees before severe weather arrives. We’ll provide you with expert tips from local professionals serving Springfield, Branson, Harrison, and the surrounding areas.
Why Tree Preparation Is Crucial Before a Missouri Storm?
Trees add shade, beauty, and value to your property, but during a storm, they can become dangerous. High winds can snap branches, uproot weak trees, or expose hidden issues that become significant hazards. Proactive preparation reduces these risks significantly.
The Dangers of Unprepared Trees
- Falling Branches: Weak or dead branches can break off and damage roofs, cars, or power lines.
- Uprooting: Shallow-rooted or unhealthy trees are more likely to be uprooted during heavy rain and wind.
- Projectile Risks: Loose debris can become airborne, damaging property and posing safety hazards.
- Increased Liability: Falling trees can cause damage to neighboring properties, resulting in costly repairs or legal issues.
Regular inspections, pruning, and stump removal in Springfield, MO, can strengthen trees and minimize potential storm-related threats. Preparing now not only keeps your property safe but also reduces post-storm cleanup costs and emergency calls.
Step 1: Inspect and Assess All Trees on Your Property
The first step in storm preparation is understanding the current condition of your trees. A professional inspection can identify structural weaknesses and signs of disease that may worsen during a storm.
What to Look For During Inspection?
- Cracks or Splits: These are signs that a tree may fail under heavy wind.
- Leaning Trees: A tree leaning more than 15° could be unstable.
- Dead or Diseased Branches: These are likely to break during storms.
- Fungal Growth or Rot: Indicates root or trunk damage that weakens the tree structure.
If a tree exhibits significant structural issues, it may require trimming, bracing, or even removal before the storm season. This is also the ideal time to handle old stumps. Decaying stumps attract pests and weaken surrounding soil structure, making nearby trees more vulnerable.
Professional Branson tree removal services and stump grinding help stabilize your yard and preparet for unpredictable weather conditions.
Step 2: Prune, Trim, and Secure Trees for Stability
Pruning and trimming are essential for reducing the chance of storm damage. Removing weak or heavy limbs decreases wind resistance and helps trees withstand strong gusts.
Best Practices for Pre-Storm Tree Care
- Crown Thinning: Reduces wind resistance by selectively removing interior branches to improve overall tree health.
- Removing Deadwood: Eliminates limbs that are likely to break and cause damage.
- Raising Canopies: Lifting low branches prevents them from scraping roofs or vehicles.
- Cabling and Bracing: Provides extra support for large or multi-trunk trees.
While homeowners can do some trimming, it’s safer to hire professionals for large trees or those near power lines. Proper pruning techniques protect tree health and reduce future hazards. Additionally, removing nearby stumps ensures there are no unstable remnants that could become dangerous during high winds.
Comprehensive preparation, including tree services in Branson, helps safeguard both trees and property before storm season hits.
Step 3: Prioritize Stump Removal and Root Health
Many homeowners overlook stumps when preparing for storms, but they can pose significant risks. Old stumps attract pests, encourage fungal growth, and destabilize soil — all of which can compromise the health and strength of surrounding trees.
Why Stump Removal Matters?
- Prevents Pest Infestations: Termites and ants can migrate from stumps to healthy trees.
- Improves Soil Stability: Healthy soil structure supports deeper root systems.
- Reduces Trip Hazards: Eliminates obstacles that become hidden by storm debris, thereby reducing the risk of tripping.
- Prepares for Replanting: Allows you to replace old trees with new, storm-resistant species.
Professional stump removal in Springfield, MO, ensures the job is done safely and thoroughly. Experts use specialized grinding equipment to eliminate the entire stump and root system, leaving your yard safer and more resilient.
By improving soil conditions and preventing decay, you’re setting the foundation for healthier trees that can better withstand storm conditions.
Step 4: Post-Storm Tree Care and Future Prevention
Once a storm passes, your work isn’t done. Post-storm assessments are crucial for identifying new damage and preventing future problems.
Post-Storm Checklist
- Inspect for Damage: Look for cracked limbs, exposed roots, or trees that are leaning.
- Remove Debris Safely: Use professionals to handle large fallen branches or trees.
- Check for Soil Erosion: Reinforce exposed roots with mulch or soil.
- Schedule Regular Maintenance: Annual pruning and inspections help keep trees healthy and strong.
It’s also essential to plan for future weather events. Missouri’s storm seasons are unpredictable, and ongoing care is key to minimizing damage year after year. Whether you need trimming, health assessments, or Branson tree removal services, partnering with a local tree care company ensures your property is always prepared.
Conclusion!
Storm preparation doesn’t stop at securing windows and clearing gutters — it starts with your landscape. Proactive steps, such as pruning, inspections, and stump removal in Springfield, MO, can mean the difference between a safe property and severe storm damage.
At RB Hardwoods & Tree Services LLC, we specialize in helping homeowners across Springfield, Branson, Harrison, Rogers, and Bella Vista prepare their trees for Missouri’s most severe weather conditions. From preventative care to post-storm cleanup, our team ensures your trees remain safe, healthy, and storm-ready. Contact RB Hardwoods today to schedule a consultation and safeguard your property before the next storm hits.
