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How to prepare your tree for a big storm

by MEG COYLE / KING 5 News

KING5.com

Posted on November 16, 2010 at 5:54 PM

Updated Thursday, Nov 18 at 9:34 AM

SEATTLE – Washington isn't called the Evergreen State for nothing. We are surrounded by tall trees that like to keep us on pins and pine needles in a wind storm.

So, what can you do with those big trees near your home to help keep them standing tall in a big storm?

One of the big contributors to trees coming down is the branches, which act like sails when the winds kick up. Drew Cheney with Booma Tree Experts says trimming branches is a delicate balance. Trimming too much can weaken the tree. He says maintenance is key.

"You need to watch for those really big long branches that are hanging over your house that can break with wind or rain or snow or something like that," said Cheney.

And keep in mind, every big tree needs a checkup now and then.  Check the soil around the base.  Look for unusual cracks in the trunk.  If a woodpecker's gotten to it, that could be a sign of an insect infestation.  And make sure the roots haven't been compromised by something like a retaining wall nearby.

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Comments: Displaying 1 - 2 of 2

treeclimber said on November 17, 2010 at 2:41 PM

if you trim the larger tree limbs from the bottom of the tree it will allow the wind to blow threw and lesson the strain on the tree or some people think they help balance it in a wind storm,i have been told to trim them half way up but haven't done so .

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judymacauley said on November 17, 2010 at 8:52 AM

Thank you, Meg, for the great story on our company! Our name, though, is Blooma Tree Experts. Thanks!

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