Wind and Ice Storms Weaken Trees
Tree expert says 2009 ice storm still affecting tree limbs
A tree expert at the University of Arkansas said Monday some tree limbs are still susceptible to breaking because of damage from the 2009 ice storm.
Dave Hensley with the University of Arkansas horticulture department says how a tree grows is a big indicator if it will break during a storm or not. He said trees with wide branch angles are stronger, while trees with narrow branch angles are more likely to break under snow or ice weight.
"It's simple physics. The more narrow the branch angle is, the less weight it will take to break it off," Hensley said.
The ice storm from 2009 still has a lasting impact for Gretchen Friedrich. Her home Fayetteville's Historic District was without power for 11 days when ice knocked branches down across her yard.
"It causes roof damage all the time. It's a constant battle," she said.
Hensley says certain tree types are more susceptible to breaking during storms. He said oak trees are stronger, while Bradford Pear trees are notorious for losing branches.
The best way to avoid losing branches is to hire a good arborist to trim excess branches ever so often, Henlsey said.
"Don't hire someone with a pickup truck and a ladder. Make sure they know how to trim trees, not just hedges," Hensley said.