Arizona storms can be hard on trees. During monsoon season, strong winds, dust storms, heavy rain, and lightning can quickly damage trees and branches. Dead branches can break. Weak limbs can fall onto roofs, cars, fences, and other property. In some cases, a tree that is already damaged or unhealthy may become unstable during a storm.
While tree trimming cannot completely prevent storm damage, it can help reduce the risk.
How Can Tree Trimming Help?
Dead, damaged, and weak branches are more likely to break during strong winds. Removing these branches before a storm can help reduce the number of potential hazards around your property.
Tree trimming can help remove branches that are:
- Dead or dying
- Cracked or damaged
- Weakly attached to the tree
- Growing too close to your home or other structures
- Rubbing against other branches
- Too heavy or overgrown
Removing problem branches can also help improve the overall structure of a tree. A well-maintained tree may be better able to handle strong winds than one with significant dead growth or weak branches.
Why Are Arizona Storms Hard on Trees?
Arizona’s monsoon storms can develop quickly and bring powerful wind gusts. These winds can break branches and, in some cases, cause trees to fall.
Heavy rain can also saturate the soil around a tree’s roots. This may make some trees less stable, especially if they already have root damage or other structural problems.
Dust storms can bring strong winds as well. Lightning can also seriously damage trees by splitting branches or damaging the trunk.
Arizona’s extreme heat and long periods of dry weather can add to these problems. Trees that are already stressed may be more vulnerable when severe weather arrives.
Can Tree Trimming Make a Tree Storm-Proof?
No. Even a healthy tree can be damaged during a severe storm.
The goal of tree trimming is to reduce avoidable risks. Removing weak or hazardous branches can help address some of the problems that may make a tree more likely to suffer damage.
However, trimming needs to be done carefully. Removing too many branches or cutting them incorrectly can damage a tree and create new problems. Tree topping, for example, can weaken a tree and lead to poorly attached new growth.
Signs Your Tree May Be a Storm Risk
Before monsoon season, look for signs that a tree may need professional attention. These can include:
- Large dead branches
- Cracks in the trunk or large limbs
- Branches hanging over your home, driveway, or other structures
- A tree that is noticeably leaning
- Damaged or exposed roots
- Signs of decay
- Large dead areas in the tree’s canopy
Some tree problems are difficult to see from the ground. A professional tree care company can inspect the tree and help determine whether trimming or other services are needed.
Trim Trees Before the Storm
The best time to deal with hazardous branches is before a storm is on the way. Once monsoon season begins, tree care companies may become busy responding to storm damage and emergency calls.
Regular tree trimming can help identify and address potential problems before they become an emergency. While trimming cannot prevent all storm damage, it can help reduce risks and keep trees healthier.
If you are concerned about a tree near your home, driveway, fence, or other structure, Green Keeper Tree Care can evaluate the tree and recommend the right care. Professional tree trimming can help prepare your Arizona trees for the challenges of monsoon storms and severe weather.
