We could also call this post: Tree Recovery After the Texas Big Freeze: What You Need to Know
A few years have passed since the devastating Texas big freeze, and it’s now time for Texans to make a crucial decision about their trees: should they remove them, or will they recover? Understanding the current state of your trees is essential to maintaining safety and the health of your landscape. The current heatwave is really stressing trees even more and the lack of rain since early June is being felt as well.
Dead or Alive?
Signs of a Dead Tree
If your tree is bare and hasn’t put out a single leaf by now, it is almost certainly dead. Unfortunately, waiting a few more weeks or months won’t change this outcome. This applies to all tree species. A completely leafless tree without any signs of life means it has begun rotting internally. Large limbs from these trees can fall without warning, posing significant risks to people and property.
Signs of a Recovering Tree
Trees showing any signs of green are potentially recoverable. A tree with even a few green leaves has a chance to bounce back. Healthy trees should have developed a full canopy of leaves by this point in the summer, especially with the ample rain we’ve been receiving in the Abilene region. Trees with at least 50% of their normal canopy are likely to survive but may require careful trimming to remove damaged or dead limbs.
Assessing Tree Health Post-Freeze
Poor or Patchy Canopies
Many trees still exhibit poor or patchy canopies as a result of the Texas Big Freeze. By this stage in the growing season, healthy trees should be lush with leaves. If your tree’s canopy is less than 20% of what it should be, it’s a strong indicator that the tree will not recover and should be removed to prevent potential hazards.
What to Do Next
1. Evaluate Your Trees: Look for new growth. Trees with no green at all are beyond saving and need to be removed.
2. Check Canopy Density: A full or nearly full canopy is a great sign. Trees with less than 50% of their canopy should be monitored and possibly pruned.
3. Safety First: DANGER! Dead trees and large dead limbs pose serious risks. It’s crucial to remove them promptly to avoid accidents.
Seek Professional Help
Our arborist continues to see trees across the Abilene region struggling with the aftermath of the freeze. If you’re unsure about the state of your trees, consulting with our professionals can provide clarity and ensure your landscape remains safe and beautiful. For expert advice and tree removal services, reach out to our team. We’re here to help you make the best decisions for your trees and your property.
