How To Safely Clear Snow From Tree Branches Without Damaging Them

Before knocking off the snow on your trees, we suggest you take a step back. Because this situation can be dangerous, you should rely on expert advice from a tree service in Aurora, CO. Keep reading to learn how to safely clear the snow from your tree limbs without damaging them.

snow on trees

Handling Snow-Covered Trees

If snow weight is burdening your trees, exercise extreme caution. Ice or snow that has accumulated can cause limbs to break or drop unexpectedly. If the branches are intertwined with power lines, leave them alone. The best time to clear limbs is before a winter storm. It’s best to leave power line clearing to the professionals.

If the snow on your trees hasn’t created utility line issues, you can lightly shake or clear the limbs with a large brush or broom using gentle movements. Big, brisk motion can make the branches snap. In addition, we don’t recommend climbing these trees or using a ladder to get to the higher limbs.

Dealing With Tree Branch Damage

When you’re faced with tree branch damage, there are important measures you can take to ensure your family’s safety.  

Contact the Authorities

It’s critical to reach out to city officials if you’ve noticed snow-damaged trees in easement areas. Next, you should carefully inspect trees for damage. If they’re healthy, their main upward-growing branches will have retained at least 50% of their canopy, a sign that indicates a likely chance of recovery.

Don’t Act Aggressively

Aggressively knocking off snow can cause branches to snap. Take extreme caution with gnarled limbs by gently pushing your broom under them using gentle motions.

Take Precautions

You can take several preemptive winter tree maintenance steps before a winter storm.

  • Removing branches: Removing limbs before ice and snow damage minimizes hazards, diseases, and decay. When pruning, do so at the point where the branches connect. 
  • Pruning limbs: Don’t over-prune your trees even though they may not look balanced once you eliminate unsightly branches. Remember, not all branches that appear damaged are unhealthy. After you’ve done preventive pruning, once the winter season has ended, trees can self-correct by growing foliage, which will improve their appearance.
  • Don’t rely on DIY methods: DIY can be dangerous, especially if the job requires tools that create hazards if not used correctly. In these instances, it’s best to bring in a certified professional for assistance.

How To Carefully Remove Snow

When dealing with snow and ice accumulation on trees, it’s critical to use caution when removing it. Using a soft, dry, light broom, you can gently brush it away. Only consider this method immediately following freezing weather. Move your broom from the bottom up, and do not remove hardened elements. During spring, conduct appropriate maintenance by consulting an arborist before winter begins.

Rely on the Experts

Careful snow removal techniques are required to safely remove snow on trees. Put your trust in the expert, certified arborists at Bear Creek Tree Service. In addition to 24-hour emergency services and affordable prices, we offer comprehensive tree and plant health care. Contact us today at (720) 299-1409.

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