Tips for Dealing with Storm-Damaged Trees
Protecting Your Property with Wells Lawn Care
“April showers bring May flowers.” Many of us grew up with this familiar rhyme, a lighthearted reminder of spring’s rainy arrival. But with the beauty of spring also comes the reality of storm season and for many homeowners, tree damage becomes a serious concern. High winds, heavy rain, and even lightning can cause significant harm to trees, leading to cracked branches, broken limbs, uprooted trunks, and more. Beyond the damage to the trees themselves, there’s also the potential risk to people, homes, vehicles, and power lines.
If you suspect a tree on your property has been damaged by a storm, it’s important to act quickly, but safely. Start by assessing the situation from a distance. Keep an eye out for:
- Heaving of the ground, which could indicate root failure
- Cracks or splits in limbs or the trunk
- Hanging branches, which pose a serious fall hazard
- Nearby power lines (assume all are live and dangerous; never approach a tree touching or near a utility line).
Safety should always be your top priority. Once the immediate threat is assessed, the next step is to consult a professional. Hiring an ISA (International Society of Arboriculture) Certified Arborist to perform a risk assessment can help determine whether the tree can be saved or should be removed. You can search for certified arborists near you and verify credentials by visiting TreesAreGood.org. Additional guidance is also available through the Purdue Extension’s Trees and Storms publication, found on The Education Store.
At Wells Lawn Care, we understand that storm damage can turn your once-beautiful landscape into a source of stress. That’s why we offer storm clean-up and tree debris removal as part of our seasonal services. While we always recommend working with certified arborists for large-scale tree assessments and removals, our team is ready to step in and help with the aftermath, whether it’s clearing fallen limbs, tidying up damaged garden beds, or preparing your yard for regrowth.
We proudly serve Bloomington, IN, and surrounding areas, and we’re committed to helping homeowners recover quickly and safely after severe weather events. With regular maintenance and responsive clean-up services, Wells Lawn Care can help keep your property looking its best, rain or shine.
Management Recommendations
Fungicides
Avoid using fungicides for mature trees in landscapes due to inpracticality and generally non-severe damage.
Nurseries
In nurseries, consider preventative applications to protect new growth and slow disease spread during severe outbreaks, especially where overhead irrigation is used.
Pruning
Rake leaf litter and prune infected stems to remove inoculum for the next season and prevent the spread of existing infections.
Trust Wells Lawn Care
At Wells Lawn Care, we’re dedicated to providing the best care for your trees and ensuring they remain healthy and vibrant. If you’re dealing with black spot of elm, our team is here to help with expert advice and effective solutions.
Contact Wells Lawn Care for a consultation and customized recommendations. Visit Wells Lawn Care Monthly Packages to learn more and get started today!