How to Save a Tree That Has Fallen Over

tree services

Trees topple over and fall quite often. This is especially common when strong winds and rainstorms hit areas with weak and soft ground. But what if the tree is precious to you and you are not ready to let go yet? Can the tree be saved?

According to tree services providers, yes, it’s possible to save a fallen tree. In fact, this article gives you a step-by-step guide on how to save a tree that has already fallen. 

Rescuing a Fallen Tree

Whether this project will be successful or not depends on the size of the tree. Younger trees of about 15ft. in height or less are more likely to survive than older and much bigger trees.  

This is because Roots are the anchors of a tree. In most cases, fallen tree roots are significantly damaged and cannot sustain the tree’s weight. Smaller trees are likely to survive once replanted because the weight above the ground does not overwhelm the support under the ground. 

The tree’s survival will also depend on how big of a shock it got from the fall. So keep in mind that some trees may not grow back to health even after following the proper process to replant them. 

That said, here is a step-by-step guide on how to save a tree that has fallen over. 

Step 1. Keep the roots moist.

When a tree falls over, it is likely to have some roots sticking out of the ground while still attached to the ground on one side. The first thing you need to do is ensure that you keep the sticking roots hydrated to keep them from drying up. Pour water on them as often as need – recommended once every few hours. 

Step 2. Prepare a hole big enough for the exposed roots

The next step is to clear up and make a huge hole in the side of the tree where the exposed roots initially sat. This will make it easy to tuck back in the roots and position the tree so that it will hold the weight above the ground. This is the only way the tree will survive and regrow strong roots.

Step 3. Prune any damaged branches and roots

When the tree falls, the impact is likely to leave the branches and roots of the tree jagged and damaged. Pruning the branches will reduce the weight on top while cleaning the roots ensures that the damage does not cause rot once they are underground. Remember to use extra sharp tools to ensure that the cuts are as clean as possible. 

Step 4. Straighten the tree

Once steps 2 and 3 are done, you are now ready to replant the tree. You can use a machine or get a few people to help pull up the tree to its original position. Ensure that the exposed roots are well in the hole prepared. Remember that you will need to use props to support the tree because it is still weak to stand on its own. 

Step 5. Fill the hole

Carefully fill back the soil that you dug up from the hole. Ensure that the process is done with care as too much impact can damage the roots. 

Step 6. Aftercare

It might look like you are done saving the tree, but the actual work starts right after replanting. Since the tree is now weak and in critical condition, it will need a lot of care and attention. The most crucial part of the care is to ensure that the tree is always hydrated. Watering it often will ensure that the tree stays hydrated, and the soil around the tree is always compact and saturated, making the tree stronger. 

Conclusion

When replanting a fallen tree, each case is different. However, the above steps give you a complete summary of what you could do when trying to save your precious tree. It is, however, recommended that you speak to an arborist services MD if you are not sure what to do. 

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