Introduction
A fresh snowfall might look beautiful blanketing your yard, but it can be rough on your trees—especially young or delicate ones. While it might be tempting to head outside and knock the snow off, removing it the wrong way can do more harm than good. Fortunately, with a few simple techniques, you can protect your trees and keep them healthy all season long.
1. Gently Brush Off Loose Snow
If the snow is still light and fluffy, you’re in luck—it’s easier to remove and less likely to cause damage.
How to Do It Safely:
- Use a soft-bristled broom or your hand to lightly sweep snow off the branches.
- Start from the lower branches and work your way up. This prevents snow from higher branches piling onto ones below and adding extra weight.
- Always brush upward or to the side—never downward, which can cause limbs to snap.
2. Don’t Shake or Hit the Branches
It might seem like a fast fix, but shaking or whacking tree limbs to knock off snow can do serious damage—especially when the wood is frozen and brittle.
Why It’s Not Worth the Risk:
- Cold, stiff branches are more likely to break with sudden movement.
- Shaking can stress the whole tree, especially smaller or ornamental ones.
3. Leave Ice Alone
When snow melts and then refreezes, it forms a heavy coat of ice that’s difficult—and dangerous—to remove. Trying to break it off can actually damage the branches or bark.
The Best Approach:
- Let the ice melt naturally on warmer days.
- Avoid the urge to chip away at it or use tools that might harm the tree.
- For smaller trees, a gentle shake at the trunk (not the branches!) can sometimes help—but only if it’s safe to do so.
4. Pay Special Attention to Young and Ornamental Trees
Not all trees are equally at risk. Younger trees and those with delicate branches are more likely to suffer under the weight of snow and ice.
Tips for Helping Them Out:
- Support drooping limbs with your free hand while gently brushing snow away.
- If a branch looks like it’s already under stress, it’s better to leave it alone than risk making it worse.
5. Know When to Call in the Pros
If a tree is heavily iced over, has visible damage, or is near power lines or your house, it’s time to call a professional. Attempting to fix it yourself could be unsafe.
Call an Arborist If You See:
- Broken or hanging branches out of reach
- A tree leaning more than usual after a storm
- Ice-covered limbs threatening your home, garage, or driveway
Conclusion
A little snow might not seem like a big deal, but when it piles up, it can put a lot of pressure on your trees. By using gentle snow removal methods—and avoiding common mistakes—you can help your trees make it through the winter in good shape. And if you’re ever unsure or dealing with storm damage, the team at Environmental Advantage is always here to help.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit Environmental Advantage.