The beginning of 2015 might not have brought enough snow to bring us to a standstill locally but hurricane-force winds have inflicted more than enough disruption and destruction for the time being.

Tree surgeons across the country are incredibly busy at the moment dealing with the effects of the gale force winds during last month.

Unfortunately, this has a knock-on effect on the existing workload however at Prince Tree we have a large team of tree surgeons and are able to take on multiple jobs at the same time, ensuring we can respond promptly to our customers – especially during emergencies.

Even if your tree managed to withstand the strength of the winds, which reached 113mph in the north of England, many homeowners will be worried about any long-term damage from snapped branches.

The priority for an arborist will be responding to trees which have fallen across roads and pedestrian routes to make them safe. Nevertheless, we will also be helping homeowners in the weeks ahead to do what they can to treat injured trees to prevent them from premature death.

So how exactly can a storm with the strength of the winds witnessed in Scotland lin December affect the health of your tree?

The list below details the six most common types of storm damage to trees:

Blown over.

Large trees which cannot be righted after being blown over in a storm are unlikely to survive. This is due to the severe damage caused to their root systems and the challenge to get them back into the soil. However, smaller trees including some fruit species could be saved if you act in good time. The risk of a tree being blown over in a storm depends on the health of a tree in the first place. Diseased trees will be more susceptible to damage.

Stem failure.

A tree does not have the ability to heal its wounds but will grow over them to seal them from the external environment. Any wound site will be significantly weaker than the remainder of the tree and can fail more easily during strong winds. They are also susceptible to damage by pests and diseases and quite often it is not the storm damage itself that spells the end of a tree but the following problems from disease.

Crown twist.

Strong winds against one side of a tree’s crown can produce a twisting effect on major branches and the main stem. Over time this twisting effect can right itself with the emergence of new wood however any stem twisting will increase existing weaknesses in the tree resulting in the stem splitting or branches snapping.

Root failure.

Tree roots provide anchorage for a tree and the primary roots growing from the bottom of the stem plays an important role in keeping it upright as well as extracting water and essential nutrients for growth. If roots are constrained or damaged, this can place additional stress on the roots and in the event they are pulled they are likely to lean or fall.

Branch failure.

Branches are secured to the stem by a small layer of stem wood called the branch collar. Hurricane winds can place the branch collar area under significant and unexpected stress, leaving the branches unprepared and at risk of tearing or snapping. This situation can be rectified with careful repair and maintenance work.

If you were one of the areas affected by the storms last month and December, don’t automatically assume your tree escaped any damage just because it’s still standing. Seek a professional opinion to ensure there is no disease threat or weaknesses which need attention.

As a tree owner, it’s your responsibility to make sure any trees you own are safe and will not injure people or property. A storm can significantly weaken a tree and it’s your duty to provide adequate preventative care.

If you would like to discuss with us in more detail a particular tree you may have a concern with, then please do not hesitate to contact us here on 01277 229709.