When residents of Colorado experienced an unexpected blizzard exactly one week before the official start of spring, many were taken off guard.
Temperatures had been gradually warming up leading up to this meteorological event, then plummeted as high winds (some hurricane strength) and heavy snowfall crippled much of the state.
The aforementioned winds were unrelenting through much of the day – battering both residential and community trees. Some lost branches and downed power lines, others due to age or even disease were no match for Mother Nature and snapped off at their trunk.
But one of SavATree’s Front Range customers experienced a different situation with their Pinon Pine tree. Due to shallow roots, saturated soil and those hurricane force winds, the tree quite lite rally was pulled out of the ground on a 45-degree angle.
When SavATree arrived on the property to evaluate the situation, it was determined that with a little tug here and a pull here (compliments of a tow hook and commercial grade rope) the tree could be straightened, cabled and braced successfully.
What is cabling and bracing?
Tree cabling and bracing is a common practice for trees which have experienced damage due to severe weather conditions to prevent any further structural failure from happening.
Though do-it-yourselfers assume the task of tree cabling and bracing is one they can easily handle on their own, there is a unique science behind it, and, if done correctly, it can add 10-15 years of a life to a tree.
Following the guidelines set forth by the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA), SavATree will assess the situation and determine if cabling and bracing is in fact the best solution for your trees individual circumstances.
In the case of the Pinon Pine above, a combination of cabling and bracing was recommended in order for the tree to withstand any future windstorms which often frequent Colorado’s climate.
It’s important to remember that all cabling and bracing should be evaluated and maintained on a yearly basis due to the growth of the tree and normal hardware wear during the season.
It’s also in your best interest to have a certified arborist assess your trees, pointing out all signs of weaknesses and where cabling and bracing may be needed. Storm damage is evident to homeowners, but sometimes damaged limbs are not easily seen unless a full assessment is completed.
To schedule a free consultation for tree cabling and bracing, contact SavATree today.