Survival Methods Trees Use During Adverse Weather

Do you have trees in your backyard? If so, routine care and maintenance are crucial to ensure healthy growth and longevity. This is particularly true during adverse weather, such as summer and winter, when the conditions are not conducive. Even if trees are dormant in the cold months, summer poses different challenges. As a trusted tree care company in Alpharetta, GA, the Southern Star Tree provides comprehensive services, including planting, fertilization, pruning, and removal. By investing in professional maintenance, you can rest knowing your trees are in tip-top shape year-round. Fortunately, trees have ways to cope with weather-related stress in addition to professional care.

They Have Bark

Bark acts as protection and insulation against freezing during winter. In addition, tree bark varies in densities, textures, and colors, allowing it to reflect light and disperse heat. While tree bark is tough, it can crack and peel in adverse weather, prompting professional care to prevent further damage and premature tree removal. It is also advisable to schedule routine inspections with certified arborists, ensuring timely intervention.

Leaves Drop or Have a Needle-Like Shape

Deciduous trees usually lose their leaves in the cold season, minimizing water loss and deterioration. On the other hand, conifers, also known as needle-leaved trees, retain water year-round with the exception of bald cypress and larch. Needles retain water better than broadleaves because of the small surface and waxy coating. If you live in an area that experiences extreme weather, consult a professional tree service provider on the best species to grow.

Increase Cold Tolerance at the Cellular Level

Trees usually prepare for the cold at the end of summer. With the decline in daylight hours, trees slowly enter a dormant state, reaching maximum tolerance by mid-winter. This cellular change involves several processes, including shrinkage, sugar concentration, and dehydration, forming glass-like cells. While this helps to prevent freezing and cell damage, regular maintenance by a trusted tree care company is crucial. As stated, professional arborists can pinpoint signs of winter stress early, implementing effective preventive measures before the damage spreads.

Explode Under Freezing Temperatures

While trees have effective strategies for withstanding extreme conditions, sometimes they can’t take it. When the cold becomes too much, trees can explode! This is often caused by delayed acclimation, causing the sap inside the tree to freeze. Even if the cases of exploded trees are not common, investing in routine care can ensure protection throughout. The last thing you want is a tree exploding in the middle of winter, causing property damage, safety hazards, and tree removal emergencies.

Now that you know the various survival techniques trees use to ensure their survival, you can play your part to enhance growth and overall well-being. Schedule routine maintenance checks with a professional tree service provider to detect, diagnose, and address underlying issues effectively. Contact us at the Southern Star Tree today and schedule a consultation with our experts to ensure your trees survive extreme cold and heat. We leverage extensive knowledge and experience to tailor care plans that align with your trees’ needs, giving you peace of mind throughout.