A veil of white snow and glistening ice on tree branches and evergreens may look pretty, but it could be dangerous for your trees and anything under its branches. You can help protect your tree from winter winds, snow, and ice with properly cabling and bracing techniques.

Tree and Shrub Inspection

While you’re checking if you have enough firewood, bread, milk, and eggs before a snowstorm, also check the condition of your trees. Look for the following signs of structural damage:

• Cracks in the trunk
• Broken, cracked, or sagging limbs
• Exposed roots
• Leaning/tilting trunk
• Crossed branches that rub together

Once this inspection is complete, work with a certified arborist to determine whether or not to trim, remove, or reinforce the tree to ensure its own health and the protection of surrounding property.

Reinforce Trees with Cabling and Bracing

Trees at risk for storm damage can be reinforced with cabling and bracing. The proper process will depend on the type of tree, where it’s located, and any existing damage.

Use high strength steel cables to secure branches in the upper crown or tree canopy. Attach the cabling to bolts inserted in the branches that need support. The cables redistribute any structural stress among these weaker branches, and can also limit swaying or movement during in high winds.

Bracing supports the lower sections of a tree. Insert steel rods above and/or below any existing cracks or splits in the trunk or at trunk-branch joints to offer added stability. Tree bracing can be used in conjunction with tree cabling.

Proper Tree Care

There are a few reasons homeowners may choose to reinforce a tree with cabling and bracing:

1. Reduce the potential for personal injury and property damage.
2. Protect trees from stress damage and injury in a storm or seasonal change.
3. Restoring the structure of trees by repairing existing issues.

But there are more ways to help protect trees from damage:

1. Regular pruning of dead, diseased, or decaying branches.
2. Mulching and fertilizing around the base of the trunk.
3. Wrapping the trunk of young trees with burlap to guard against damage.
4. Watering the roots before the ground freezes.

Proper care and placement of cables and braces is important for ensuring the right protection of your trees and property. Hire a certified arborist to make sure the job is done correctly. Contact Elite Tree Care for more information and a tree cabling and bracing consultation.