When Lightning Strikes: A Tree's Journey
When lightning strikes a tree, it sets off a complex series of events that can affect the tree's health and longevity. At Bonilla Tree Services, we've seen firsthand the impact lightning can have and understand the importance of proper care and monitoring for affected trees. Here's an overview of what happens when lightning strikes a tree and the journey to recovery or removal:
The Immediate Impact
Path of Least Resistance: Lightning tends to follow the path of least resistance to the ground, which often includes water in the tree's cells.
Explosive Steam: The rapid heating of water within the tree can cause steam to expand explosively, leading to the splitting of bark and wood.
Electrical Damage: The intense electrical charge can disrupt the tree's vascular system, hindering its ability to transport water and nutrients.
Assessing the Damage
External Signs: The most obvious signs include strips of bark blown off, cracks running down the trunk, and branches that may have been severed.
Internal Damage: Less visible are the effects on the tree's internal systems, which can lead to long-term health issues.
The Recovery Process
Immediate Care: The first step is to safely remove any loose or hanging branches that pose a danger. However, major pruning should be postponed until the tree's recovery prospects are clearer.
Water and Mulch: Providing adequate water and applying mulch can help the tree manage stress and maintain moisture.
Monitoring: Over the following months, it's crucial to monitor the tree for signs of decline, such as increased leaf drop, lack of new growth, or signs of disease and pest infestation.
Making the Decision: Recovery or Removal
Recovery Potential: Trees with minor damage, where less than 25% of the bark around the trunk has been affected, often have a good chance of recovery.
Risk Assessment: Trees that pose a risk to people or property due to structural damage may need to be removed. An arborist can help assess the risk and make recommendations.
Long-Term Health: Even if a tree survives the initial impact, its long-term health may be compromised. Continuous monitoring and care are essential.
Preventative Measures
Lightning Protection Systems: For valuable or historically significant trees, installing a lightning protection system can divert the electrical charge away from the tree and into the ground.
Regular Maintenance: Keeping trees healthy through proper pruning, watering, and disease management can make them more resilient to damage from lightning and other stresses.
When a tree is struck by lightning, the journey ahead depends on the extent of the damage and the tree's natural resilience. At Bonilla Tree Services, we're equipped to assess the condition of lightning-struck trees and provide the necessary care, whether that means aiding in recovery or safely removing the tree. Understanding the effects of lightning and providing prompt, appropriate care can make all the difference in a tree's survival and recovery.