What is Sudden Tree Limb Drop?

If a branch suddenly drops from one of the trees on your property, it could cause massive damage. Think of the disaster it could create on your home, outdoor furniture, or figures like your patio. Even worse, imagine the insurance liability if a tee breaks while overhanging the road. What happens if it hits a car traveling past?

Sudden tree branch drop syndrome is something that every homeowner and business owner should understand as the seasons change. Summer is the most common time for tree branch drop, especially during harsh weather and high winds.

What Is Sudden Tree Limb Drop Syndrome?

So, why do branches fall suddenly from seemingly healthy trees? While we can expect stormy weather to drop a few branches. What’s most curious is when trees seem to do this of their own volition in calm weather conditions.

Why Do Tree Branches Suddenly Drop?

Unfortunately, the experts don’t have an answer for what causes sudden tree branch drop syndrome. However, some believe it might have something to do with the humidity levels in the local environment and the moisture in the tree.

That explanation explains why the phenomena occur most in the summer months. Trees don’t sweat like humans, and when moisture levels get too high in hot, humid weather, something has to give – leading to branch drop.

Evapotranspiration describes the evaporative process of moisture leaving a healthy tree. Typically, it occurs through the leaves, but when the RH in the air is at high levels, the tree might decide to drop branches to avoid drowning.

Ideal Conditions for Sudden Tree Limb Drop

Certain climate conditions make for a high likelihood of tree branch drops. Here are some things to look out for when the summer rolls around.

• Changes in the appearance and movement of branches.
• Drought and dry soil.
• Signs of bark shrinkage on trees.
• Prolonged hot weather.
• Sudden rainstorms followed by elevated humidity levels.

It’s challenging for most people to stay on top of these changes. However, if you have lots of trees on your property, it’s worth taking the time to run an inspection, especially after major rains during hot weather conditions.

Strategies to Mitigate the Risk of Sudden Tree Limb Drop

There’s not much homeowners can do to mitigate the risks of sudden tree branch drops. They’re unexpected, and you usually don’t see them coming until it’s too late. However, you can follow these tips to increase your safety around trees this summer.

Do Seasonal Pruning

Homeowners should inspect their trees at the end of the winter and prune back any weak or unhealthy branches. Pre-emptively removing the branches is a better strategy than waiting for things to go wrong.

Keep an Eye on Your Trees

Monitor your older trees throughout the year. Make a mental note to examine them once every other week to look for signs of abhorrent growth or health problems.

Don’t Place Furniture Under Trees

Don’t leave garden furniture like chairs and benches under trees during the summer. Take them out to enjoy the day in the sun and pack them away. Dropped branches can severely damage your property.

More information: https://hles.unl.edu/update08042017#Six

Arbor Hills Tree Farm & Nursery Omaha

We provide the Highest Quality Field Grown Nebraska Trees and Shrubs – directly to our customers, at the lowest possible price.

Whether you are looking for trees for:

• new home landscaping
• wind blockage
• commercial or residential

Simply select the tree(s) you want and they will be ready for pickup or delivery the following Saturday Morning. The trees are easy to handle and plant. Click here for more information.