To those that live in Denver, Colorado, and Front Range Area; hailstorms are always something to contend with from early spring and sometimes into the fall. Some can be devastating to property and sometimes cause the loss of life for humans and animals. Property damage can be to buildings, cars and especially to the more delicate things that grow, like trees. Ironwood Earthcare, a local professional tree care company offers solutions for hail damaged trees.
Colorado is one of the three states that are often referred to as “Hail Alley”. The other two states are Nebraska and Wyoming. This is due to their geographical location and weather patterns. Hail Alley is a region in the central United States known for experiencing a high frequency of severe hailstorms. The frequency and severity of hailstorms in this area can pose challenges to agriculture, infrastructure, and property in the affected communities.
Tree Damage in the Aftermath of a Significant Hailstorm
Many trees are damaged during these intense storms. Ironwood Healthcare specialists want to remind you that most trees can be saved if cared for properly. If trees are too damaged or have crashed to the ground or into a building, Ironwood Earthcare will remove those trees for you.
The severity of hail damage to trees can vary depending on several factors, including the size of the hailstones, the strength of the storm, and the overall health and resilience of the tree species. Some tree species may be more susceptible to damage than others. Young or newly planted trees are generally more vulnerable because their branches and bark may be less developed and more prone to breakage.
If your area experiences a hailstorm, it is a good idea to inspect your trees afterward for any signs of damage. Look for broken or split branches, torn leaves, and wounds on the bark. Assess the overall health of the tree and consult with Ironwood Earthcare if you have concerns about its well-being or if you need assistance with tree care and recovery.
Taking preventative measures, such as pruning dead or weak branches, maintaining proper tree health through regular care can help minimize the risk of hail damage to your trees. If you know a significant storm is heading your way, you can attempt to cover younger trees to protect them, but if the hailstones are large enough, they could still be damaged.
Do Most Trees Recover from Hail Damage?
Whether or not trees can recover from hail damage depends on the severity of the damage and the specific species of tree. In general, trees have a remarkable ability to heal themselves and overcome various types of damage, including hail damage. However, the extent of recovery can vary.
For minor hail damage, such as small leaf tears or broken branches, trees often have the capacity to recover fully. They may produce new leaves and branches to replace the damaged ones. The healing process usually involves the growth of new tissues to cover and seal the wounds.
In cases of more severe hail damage, where branches are extensively broken or stripped of leaves, the recovery process may take longer and could involve more significant efforts from the tree. Some branches may not be able to regenerate, and the tree may need to redirect its resources to repair and strengthen the remaining parts. It’s also important to consider the overall health and age of the tree, as younger and healthier trees generally have a better chance of recovering from damage.
Additionally, certain tree species are more resilient to hail damage than others. Some trees have naturally flexible branches or thicker bark, which can provide them with better protection against hail. Species adapted to specific climates may also have mechanisms to recover more effectively from hail damage.
Proper care and maintenance can aid in the recovery of hail-damaged trees. Providing adequate water, nutrients, and pruning damaged or broken branches can support the healing process. It’s advisable to consult with a certified arborist or tree care professional like Ironwood Earthcare, who can assess the extent of the damage and provide appropriate guidance for recovery.
Remember that while many trees can recover from hail damage, severe or repeated damage may have long-term consequences and could potentially weaken or destabilize the tree, making it more susceptible to diseases, pests, or future storms.
To contact Ironwood Earthcare for assistance with your hail damaged trees, call them at 303-366-3020 or fill out a contact form on our website. We fully expect the phone to ring after a hail event, so we are ready to help you!
