MISSOURI COMMUNITY FORESTRY COUNCIL
www.mocommunitytrees.com

  Ongoing tree care after an ice storm:

• The strongest trees that hold up during natural disasters such as the recent ice storm are those that have been properly cared for; mainly those that are pruned to form a single trunk (or central leader) and pruned to favor branches that are well spaced at angles of 45 – 90 degrees. Practice following the Scout method, pruning back to the branch collar or near another bud are good pruning methods.

• Good tree care includes: planting the right tree in the right place, scheduled pruning that promotes tree health and tree structure, watering during droughty periods (especially newly established trees), mulching (especially newly established trees), insect and disease control and proper fertilization practices.

• Plant the right tree in the right place. Do not plant taller trees within 25 feet of power lines. The best tree to plant back is the tree species that fits the planting site and will not become a liability in the future by endangering utilities, buildings or lines of site. When selecting a tree to plant, think about its physical characteristics and benefits (such as shade, spring/fall color, low maintenance, wind and ice storm survivability, hardiness, windbreak, visual screen, sound barrier, wildlife benefits, riparian buffer, etc ...).

• Plant native tree species along with non-native species to diversify our urban forest and maintain forest health and vigor.

• Refer to the "Recommended Tree Species List" for ideas of native and non-native trees to plant in our communities. The list is located at: http://www.mocommunitytrees.com/

• Plant slower growing trees along with faster growing trees to provide the immediate gratification of fast growth while maintaining sustainability and diversity. Also plant smaller planting stock along with larger potted or B&B trees. By doing so, you will see that a properly planted smaller tree will often outgrow its larger companion that grows more slowly at first due to the massive root loss.

• Be patient… Tree care professionals are very busy. Remove any hazardous branches and trees immediately and wait to hire a qualified tree care professional such as an ISA certified arborist. The best times to prune are in the winter.

• Experts agree, Don't Top Your Tree. The ice storm topped some of our trees, but we don't necessarily need to finish the job. If more than 50% of a tree's branches are damaged and the tree is a hazard, then it is best to remove the tree since it will start to decline in health and become decayed.