Learn How to Repair Tree Struck by Lightning with essential steps for recovery, from assessing damage to restoring your tree’s health.
When a majestic tree stands tall and proud, it becomes a natural focal point of any landscape. However, when a tree endures the force of a lightning strike, it can suffer significant damage. But fear not! With proper care and attention, you can help your lightning-struck tree on its road to recovery. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to repair a tree struck by lightning.
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How to Repair Tree Struck by Lightning
1. Assess the Damage
After a lightning strike, it’s crucial to assess the extent of the damage before taking any action. Look for signs of injury, such as split or stripped bark, exposed wood, or broken branches. Assess the tree’s overall stability and determine if it poses any immediate danger to people or property.
2. Ensure Safety
Safety should be your top priority during the tree repair process. If the damaged tree is near power lines or poses a risk of falling, it is recommended to contact a professional arborist to handle the situation. If it’s safe to proceed, gather the necessary tools and equipment for the repair.
3. Assist the tree in reducing water loss
Between 8-24 hours after the lightning strike, it’s crucial to help your tree start healing by ensuring it receives an ample water supply. Losing moisture is the most challenging aspect for many types of trees in Central Florida after being struck by lightning.
4. Avoid pruning too soon after a tree is struck by lightning
If the lightning strike doesn’t pose a danger to your home, it’s best to resist the temptation to prune immediately. Experts suggest adopting a wait-and-see strategy when dealing with tree injuries.
Wait for about 4-6 months, and by then, you and your tree specialist will have a clearer idea of how the healing process is progressing. This will enable you to determine the appropriate steps to support your tree’s recovery and ensure its healthy growth.
5. Don’t try to treat the tree’s wound yourself
It might seem like a good idea to trim the damaged part or apply a dressing, but research has shown that these methods often cause more harm. Instead, focus on giving your tree extra water and fertilizer, which will help it naturally respond and heal the wound.
6. Give water and fertilize
Trees have an amazing ability to bounce back! When a tree gets injured, it releases chemicals to protect and isolate the damaged area. No matter what kind of tree you have, the best thing you can do is provide it with extra nutrients. This means giving it fertilizer and water, which will support its natural healing process (the tree will take care of photosynthesis on its own).
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Can I Protect a Tree Struck by Lightning?
There are systems available to safeguard a tree struck by lightning. You can disperse the electrical charge between clouds and the ground. However, these options are often costly. If you have a valuable or unique tree on your property that you want to protect, it’s important to consult with an arborist or urban forestry expert to determine the best course of action.
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