How to Prepare Your Trees for Green Bay Storm Season

Green Bay's spring and summer storm season can bring high winds, heavy rain, and lightning that turn healthy trees into dangerous projectiles. A little preparation goes a long way in protecting your property. Here's how to storm-proof your trees.

1. Schedule a Pre-Season Inspection

Have a certified arborist inspect your trees before storm season hits. They can identify dead branches, weak crotches, disease, and structural issues that make trees more likely to fail in high winds. Many problems are invisible to the untrained eye.

2. Remove Dead and Hazardous Branches

Deadwood is the most common source of storm damage. Branches that are dead, dying, or cracked can break off in even moderate winds. Professional trimming removes these hazards before they become projectiles.

3. Thin Dense Canopies

Trees with dense, heavy canopies catch more wind, making them more likely to uproot or break. Crown thinning reduces wind resistance while preserving the tree's natural shape. This is especially important for fast-growing species like silver maples.

4. Check for Leaning Trees

A tree that's developed a sudden lean — especially after heavy rain when the ground is soft — may be at risk of falling. If you notice a new lean, have it evaluated immediately.

5. What to Do After a Storm

After a storm passes, inspect your trees for damage. Look for hanging branches, cracks, splits, and leaning trees. Don't attempt to remove large hanging branches yourself — they can fall without warning. Call a professional for hazardous situations.

Need a pre-storm inspection? Contact Green Bay's Best Tree Service for a free estimate.