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Forestry Extension Urban Forestry

Storm-Damaged Trees

In the aftermath of a major storm, the initial impulse of property owners is generally along the lines of "let’s get this mess cleaned up." But hasty decisions can often result in removing trees that could have been saved. Doing the right things after trees have been damaged can make the difference between giving your trees a good chance of survival and losing them unnecessarily. Follow these simple guidelines in administering tree first-aid to your trees after a storm.

MU Extension Guide 6867: First Aid for Storm-Damaged Trees

"Tree Topping" is the drastic removal of large limbs, and, unfortunately, a lot of people believe it is a good thing. The truth is that topping exposes the tree to disease and decay, leading to the tree’s early death.

Stem-Girdling Roots: Serious Threat to Landscape Trees

Stem-girdling roots, or SGRs, are the result of roots encircling the tree stem and eventually strangling the stem tissue. Water and nutrients cannot travel up the trunk, depriving the leaves of the building blocks required for photosynthesis.

Selling Backyard Walnut Trees

Many calls come into MU Extension with questions regarding backyard walnut trees. Reports of black walnut trees being sold for hundreds or even thousands of dollars often cause landowners to dream of huge profits from selling their backyard walnut trees.