Tree Storm Recovery: Assess, Prune & Repair Damaged Trees

Most storm-damaged trees survive with proper care. First, decide if the tree is salvageable:

• Split bark exposing cambium or split main trunk → remove.
• Over 75% crown loss → remove/replace.
• Never top trees—stubs produce weakly attached sprouts that break later.

Safety first: No ladders with chainsaws, no climbing damaged trees, never touch trees near power lines. Hire a certified arborist for large work.

Proper Pruning for Recovery

• Remove dead/broken branches back to next larger branch or trunk.
• Cut at the branch collar (not flush) for faster healing.
• No wound dressings—they don't reduce decay.
• Large limbs: three-cut method (undercut 15" out, top cut 2" further, final cut at collar).

Trim torn bark edges back to green tissue. Don't enlarge wounds. The cambium layer is vital for water/nutrient transport.