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Fallen trees
Trees that fall completely over and are laying on the ground can be righted and secured if they are fairly small (top photo). Recently planted trees fall into this category. Medium-aged and mature trees (lower photo) that are on the ground have severe root breakage and in most cases should not be righted because they are unlikely to develop the root structure needed to keep the tree erect. Click here for palms. Click here for more information on righting fallen trees.
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This 6-inch diameter tree fell over in 120 mph winds. It was righted and staked to hold it firm in the soil. Trees of this size and larger may not develop the root structure to permanently hold themselves firm in the soil. Smaller trees, those less than 4 inches trunk diameter, have a better chance of developing the proper root structure to keep them firm in the soil. |
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This 10-inch caliper tree fell over during a hurricane and was lifted back into the upright position. Small lumber was used to secure the tree. The next thunderstorm that produced moderate winds broke the lumber because it was undersized. Trees this large may not develop the root strength to permanently hold themselves erect. |
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This laurel oak fell down in a hurricane. It is too large to upright in a safe manner because too much damage to the roots occurred when the tree fell. Even if you could find someone to upright the tree with a crane the roots are not likely to grow in a manner that would secure the tree safely. |
