It is very tempting to want to remove ice or snow accumulation on your tree branches or shrubs. It’s almost as tempting as it is to pop the bubble packaging after opening your new toy that you just brought home. Resisting this urge is highly beneficial for the health of your trees or shrubs and/or reusing the bubble package for a future shipment.
We have now had a couple ice events in the Chicago area and a couple heavy wet snowfall events that have resulted in heavy accumulation on tree branches and shrubs. Once the storm has passed, we are left looking at our trees and shrubs struggling to stand up due to the excess weight. In some instances, it may result in breakage of the branch or the plant overall, which can have further negative consequences for the health of the tree or plant.
So why is it that we recommend not to remove this excess weight on our trees or shrubs? It is the very reason of excess weight and risk of breakage as to why we recommend not to remove it. The slightest bit of force or pressure on a branch may be all it can take before breaking. Allowing mother nature to slowly melt the accumulated ice or snow does not involve any additional weight or force, it ultimately reduces the weight on the plant allowing it to “spring” back, pun intended. Trees and plants in our area are amazing as to their evolution and design to deal with these types of stresses. Yes, it is true that there is a “breaking” point, no pun intended, but for the most part majority of plants and trees do just fine.
The next question then is what do we do when our trees or shrubs do break? It is important after events like these, to always go out and check everything once the ice or snow has melted away. Checking for any branches or limbs that may have broken out completely, or even ones that may have simply cracked, but are still hanging from the plant. Removing these damaged branches will help the tree heal around the wound and protect from unwanted invaders such as insects or decay.
In some instances, you may be able to handle this winter pruning yourself. With larger trees it may be best to hire a professional to properly assess your tree(s) and safely remove any damaged or broken branches.
Caring for your trees throughout the year, including the winter, with proper maintenance will help mitigate your tree’s risk of damage. Unfortunately, there will be times when weather events may expedite the need for further care to ensure the longevity of your trees and plants. So once it warms up, bundle up and check out your trees and plants and make sure they are properly cared for so you can enjoy them for many years to come!
Paul Filary
Kramer Tree Specialists
ISA Certified Arborist IL-5016A
