Protecting Your Trees Against Snow and Ice

Winter in the Northeastern United States can be a scenic and beautiful season. The snow paints a stunning picture that even catches the adoring gaze of lifelong Maryland residents. However, snow and ice can be hazardous for the trees and shrubs that make your property special. To protect your trees, keep them in the best possible condition through the winter, and teach you how to deal with the aftermath of snow or ice damage, Columbia Tree & Lawn Service has put together a helpful guide on winter tree care.

Safety First

Our most important tip is to prioritize your own safety when winter weather strikes. When you attempt to deal with snow and ice on your tree branches, bear in mind that those branches are incredibly heavy because of moisture accumulation. Branches can break without warning, and standing beneath them can prove hazardous. If you choose to take on this task instead of calling the tree specialists at Columbia Tree & Lawn Service, remain mindful of where you’re standing at all times. Don’t park your vehicles beneath trees, and call your utility company if a branch is nearing (or touches) a power line. If you aren’t confident in completing any of the tasks outlined below, it’s okay to stop and ask for help! Our customers’ safety is always paramount.

Don’t Shake Branches

It can be tempting to shake your snow-covered branches to remove the snow. After all, it seems like the quickest and easiest solution. However, you could actually cause extensive damage to the limbs if you opt for this snow removal method. If the branch is coated in ice beneath the snow, it is already strained and could break when shaken. If you happen to notice any broken or damaged branches, prune the affected area(s) whenever possible.

Prune As Needed

If limbs are starting to snap or fall, it’s a good idea to take action and prevent further damage to other parts of the shrub or tree. Prune only the areas that are already affected. Unbroken limbs should be left alone, as branches often recover significantly when the weather warms up. Ice buildup can weigh your tree’s branches down in a hurry, which poses a safety hazard. If pruning your tree would require you to stand beneath large, heavy branches, stop what you’re doing and give Columbia Tree & Lawn Service a call instead. Our professional arborists will nurture your tree and get it in the best possible shape so it stands the best chance of weathering the winter.

Brush Snow Gently

Instead of shaking the branches of your tree, remove any loose snow using a soft broom. Starting as close to the top of the shrub or tree as possible, use upward lifting motions to carefully remove the snow with the broom. Stubborn snow or ice should be left alone for your safety.

Be Proactive

Keeping your trees and shrubs properly pruned is the best way to be prepared for cold weather and storms. Protecting your trees during a storm is much more difficult than getting them in excellent condition ahead of time. Another proactive step involves directing blown or shoveled snow away from your trees to prevent it from sticking to the branches and contributing to ice and snow accumulation concerns. It’s also smart to avoid using sodium chloride-based salts near your landscaping, as these products can cause lasting issues. Reach out to Columbia Tree & Lawn Service for help with preparing for winter weather!

Call Us for Emergency Snow and Ice Removal

We offer 24-hour emergency services in Laurel, Clarksville, Columbia, Ellicott City, Elkridge, and the surrounding areas for our customers’ peace of mind. If you are concerned for your own safety or you want to avoid serious damage to your landscaping, allow us to step in and help! Our expert team will work diligently to minimize the long-term impact of winter weather on the trees and shrubs that make your property so beautiful.

To schedule a winter tree service in Howard County, Maryland or any surrounding county, call Columbia Tree & Lawn Service today at (410) 740-5444.