Storms can leave gardens, parks, and woodlands looking messy, and more importantly, unsafe. Fallen branches, split limbs, and damaged trees need quick but careful attention. Whether you’re a homeowner or a professional, here are five essential tips for safely tidying up storm-damaged trees.
1. Check for Safety Hazards First
Before picking up any tools, assess the area. Look out for:
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Hanging or partially broken branches
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Trees leaning at unusual angles
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Power lines caught in limbs
If a tree is tangled with electricity cables or looks structurally unstable, do not attempt to cut it yourself. You should contact professionals immediately.
2. Use the Right Tools for Clean Cuts
Using sharp, reliable tools helps prevent further damage to the tree and reduces the risk of accidents. For storm clear-ups, you’ll typically need:
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A quality hand saw for smaller branches
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Chainsaw with reliable, high quality chain for larger limbs
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Protective gloves and safety gear
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Proper cutting accessories such as a pruning pole to ensure smooth, controlled cuts
Clean cuts heal faster and reduce the chance of disease entering the tree.
3. Remove Broken and Dead Branches First
Start by cutting away:
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Completely snapped branches
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Deadwood exposed by the storm
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Smaller debris scattered on the ground
Work methodically from the outside of the tree inward. This keeps the area tidy and makes it easier to spot deeper structural damage.
4. Avoid Over-Pruning
It’s tempting to cut back heavily after storm damage, but less is often more. Removing too much healthy growth can stress the tree and slow recovery. Focus only on damaged, crossing, or unsafe branches, leaving healthy limbs intact wherever possible.
5. Plan Follow-Up Maintenance
Storm damage isn’t always obvious straight away. Over the next few months, keep an eye on:
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Cracks forming in branches
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Fungal growth or decay
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Leaves failing to grow back
A light maintenance prune later in the season can help the tree regain strength and shape.
Final Thoughts
A careful storm damage tree tidy-up improves safety, protects plant health, and keeps outdoor spaces looking their best. With the right approach and tools, most minor storm damage can be managed efficiently, but never hesitate to call in professionals for larger or hazardous jobs.
With a full range of arborist tools and accessories, Rotatech supports professionals with reliable equipment they can trust when responding to storm damage and urgent tree work.