The Hidden Dangers of Snow Load on Trees
During the winter, we often think about protecting our homes and vehicles from the cold, but have you considered the impact of snow load on your trees? If you live in Minnesota, you know that winter can bring wet, heavy snow that can cause a lot of tree damage, and sometimes the effects aren’t obvious until the snow starts to melt. Let’s break down the dangers of snow load on trees, how to spot the signs of snow damage, and how to protect your trees from the harsh snowstorms of winter.
Why Is Snow So Hard on Trees?
Not all snow is created equal! Heavy snow on trees can have a significant impact, especially when it’s wet and sticky. Wet snow is much heavier than dry, powdery snow, so even a small amount can put a great deal of stress on your tree branches. When too much weight accumulates, branches start to bend and break under the strain, potentially causing broken tree limbs or even entire limbs to snap off.
In some cases, the damage is obvious—branches may split and hang dangerously from the tree or break off entirely. However, the winter tree damage isn’t always apparent right away. You might not notice any issues until the snow melts and you see the signs of stress on your tree. That’s why it’s important to monitor your trees carefully during and after snowstorms.
Signs of Heavy Snow Load Damage
Whether they are immediately visible or not, you should keep an eye out for these key signs of winter tree damage:
- Bending Trees: If you notice that branches or the entire tree seem bent or sagging, the weight of the snow could be putting your tree at risk. Bending trees can sometimes recover once the snow melts, but this is a clear sign that the tree is under stress.
- Broken Branches: This is one of the most obvious signs of damage. Broken branches may scatter around the base of the tree, or hang precariously from the tree itself.
- Bark Splitting: If you see cracks or bark splitting on a tree, it’s a sign that the tree is under too much strain and could be at risk for more severe damage.
- Damaged Cables: If your tree has been cabled or braced in the past for extra support, look out for any damage or loosened cables. Inspected after a heavy snowstorm, as they may not provide the same level of support if they’ve been compromised.
If you spot broken tree branches or limbs that are blocking a path or threatening your property, this could lead to hazardous tree situations. Broken tree limbs on trees near your home, power lines, or vehicles can pose a serious safety risk.
Removing Snow: What to Do (And What Not to Do)
If you’re concerned about the snow load on your trees, your first instinct might be to clear it off yourself. However, this can be risky! Removing snow from trees can actually cause more harm than good. The weight of the snow on branches helps keep them from snapping too easily, and shaking or hitting the tree with a broom could cause branches splitting or even cause a branch to fall unexpectedly.
Letting the snow melt naturally is usually the best approach. For smaller trees that may be more vulnerable to snow weight, you can gently brush off some of the snow using a broom, but be cautious. Always keep safety in mind! Broken branches could fall, even if they aren’t visible, so be aware of your surroundings and wear protective gear.
How to Protect Your Trees From Winter Damage
While there’s not much you can do once the snow starts falling, there are plenty of steps you can take ahead of time to reduce the risk of snow damage to your trees. Here are some tips for protecting trees from winter damage:
- Trimming and Pruning: Regular trimming and pruning is essential to tree health, especially before the heavy snowfalls arrive. Removing dead or weak branches before winter helps prevent broken tree limbs and reduces the likelihood of damage from snow. Target any limbs that might easily break under the weight of snow load.
- Bracing Trees: If you have a tree that is at high risk of breaking due to its structure, consider bracing trees. This method uses support systems like cables or braces to reinforce weak or heavy branches. This is especially useful for trees with multiple trunks or large, overextended limbs.
- Tree Wrapping: For young or thin-barked trees, tree wrapping for winter is a great preventive measure. Tree shields and tree guards can protect delicate bark from frost damage and prevent physical damage from snow or ice. Wrapping also keeps moisture in and reduces the risk of barksplitting.
Call in the Experts
Winter can be tough on trees, but with the right precautions and early care, you can reduce the risk of winter tree damage and keep your trees safe through the cold months. If your tree has already sustained damage from heavy snowfall, it’s always a good idea to call in a certified arborist. Our team at Ivan’s Tree Service can safely remove broken tree branches and assess any risk to your property. Stay proactive with your tree care, and your trees will thank you come spring!