Protect our Trees From Monsoon and Dust Storm Damage in Arizona...

Damaged trees are all over valley streets an neighborhoods this week. Don't give up on your trees... there are things you can look for to help you recognize and prepare for these Arizona Storms. Research indicates that nearly 75% of tree damage occurring during storms is predictable and preventable. Here are a few warning signs that your trees may be more vulnerable to wind and other severities of our summer weather:


- Dead branches can be unpredictable because they are brittle, and cannot bend under pressure like living tree branches.

- Cracking is a clear indicator of potential branch failure, most cracks tend to lead to splits in severe weather.

- Poor tree composition (branch structure) is hard to identify. Have your Arizona landscape professional look for excessive leaning, long horizontal limbs, crossing branches that rub against each other and create wounds, and narrow crotches (V-shaped instead of U-shaped).

- Multi-trunked trees need special attention and care. Two trunks or leaders that are of identical diameter and have a narrow crotch are not a good sign. In these cases you may want to consult with an Arizona Certified Arborist (tree specialist) to prevent total tree loss.

- Any hollow cavities, decay or fugal growth is a sign of weakness.

- Pests, such as the palo verde boring beetle, can negatively affect tree's health, but they typically target trees that are already sickly.

- Root problems can cause a variety of problems, keep in mind that roots are a tree's anchor. If a significant portion of a mature tree's roots have been crushed or cut, or if the tree is still root-bound from the box it came in from the nursery before it was planted, you may consider removing the tree before Mother Nature removes it for you (without warning).

- Weak roots and a thick canopy is the deadliest combination during a storm.

- Keeping your trees thin is the single most important thing to do to "storm-proof" them. The thicker a tree is, the more susceptible it is to damage in heavy winds. Even for a tree that is otherwise perfectly healthy, overly dense foliage poses a safety hazard during stormy weather. A dense canopy will not allow the wind to easily pass through, and the resistance to wind can cause branches to break or even bring the entire tree down. Can you see some light through your tree branches? This is a good indicator that wind can pass through the tree when needs be.