It’s common to see uprooted trees after a stormy night or gusting wind flow. But these trees need to be saved, especially the partially uprooted ones. They have a higher chance of survival and can stay alive in the same position. But do you know how to save a partially uprooted tree?
You need to measure the tree’s height before trying to save it. That’s because if the tree is small (less than 10 or 15 feet), you can use a couple of stakes and plenty of soil to get it back upright. The number of stakes might need to increase if the tree is large.
But the method does not apply to evergreen trees more than 20 feet in height. In such cases, you might need to remove and replant its branches.
Reasons For Uprooted Trees During A Storm
Well, severe storms and gusting winds are responsible for an uprooted tree. However, you might notice that some trees are uprooted, and some are not. There are various reasons behind this issue, and the strength of the tree’s wood, roots, and depth are the primary reasons for uprooting or breaking.
However, it would be best to know all the reasons to take the necessary steps whenever you attempt to save an uprooted tree.
Poor structure, wood decay, and root damage are the common reasons for uprooted trees during a storm or gusting wind. If you have any home development nearby, the trees might get uprooted due to soil disruption.
And don’t forget soil needs to be matched with the trees to get a good condition for growing. Shallow soil can be responsible for uprooted trees.
If the surrounding environment changes recently like in the last 5 or 10 years), it will affect the physical protection that might cause breaking or bending. Compacted or saturated soils can also be responsible.
Is It Possible To Save A Partially Uprooted Tree?
Yes, you can save a tree that’s partially uprooted. However, there are some facts you must consider knowing the survival rate of a partially uprooted tree.
The first condition is that 50% of the root system of a partially uprooted tree must remain intact. And the tree must be less than 10 feet tall. Only then can you save the tree with proper steps and care.
It doesn’t seem susceptible to damage because of its smaller weight and mass. But it will take time to replace the damaged roots or trunks or return to normal. You must provide enough food to fulfill energy requirements for a quick survival rate.
Another thing to remember is that if the tree is above 10 feet, it will be harder to save whether it’s entirely uprooted or partially. Their extensive roots receive mineral salt and water from the soil.
Therefore, when these roots break, it will be tough for the trees to recover the destroyed roots. But with extreme care, survival chances might increase.
How Can You Save A Partially Uprooted Tree?
The chances of survival are higher if a tree is partially uprooted. However, you need to use the proper methods for that. But the tree roots need to be intact or less broken.
Small trees can’t go deep in the soil. The average deepness from the ground is about 12 to 18 inches. So their roots don’t break easily.
Here are some methods to save a partially uprooted tree:
Pull Back To Original Position
The simplest method to save a partially uprooted tree is to pull them back to its original position. If the trees are small, you might need to use some soil to hold them in their original position. That’s because, during the storm, the earth is removed from the trunk and roots.
So, pull them straight and refill the holes of the surroundings with soil. And don’t forget to use water and minerals. But if the tree is more than 20 or 30 feet, you can’t keep it in its original position. You will need to use stakes alongside.
Use Stakes Around The Tree
You can use stakes for both small and large trees. However, it’s not necessary for mature small trees that can easily stay up without any support. But if the head of the tree is weak or the roots are crucially damaged, you will need to use 2/3 stakes to support the tree.
After placing the stakes, you need to put plenty of water and soil into the roots to fulfill energy requirements. Make sure you attach the loose straps while staking the tree. It will help to stay upright. However, it would be best if you remember the limit of staking. You can’t just stake a 40 feet oak tree!
What If The Tree Is Fully Uprooted?
The process will be lengthier and tougher if a tree is entirely uprooted. That’s because when a tree breaks its limbs or trunk, the chances of survival get lower. These broken limbs might cause several infections and moisture loss.
Because of their weight, some evergreen trees cannot return to their original position. On top of that, some trees can undergo transplant shock. So, they become too sensitive and need intensive care.
However, the case differs for small trees (below 10 feet in height). You can save an entirely uprooted small tree with proper instructions and care.
And don’t forget about the cost. $870 is the average cost of an uprooted tree removal. It can increase to a whopping $3900 if the tree is large!
Final Words
Trees are lifesavers. Without trees, we can’t think of life on earth. So, we must save them. Trees face severe damage during storms, rain, and heavy wind flow. They can be uprooted fully or partially due to these reasons. But you can save them with a little effort.
Hopefully, the discussion on how to save a partially uprooted tree has fulfilled your queries. So, don’t overthink when you see a tree in uprooted condition. Run towards it and apply the discussed method. Save trees, save humanity!