Learn how to protect ice-covered trees and shrubs from extensive damage.
During the cold winter months, you may notice icicles hanging from your shrub and tree branches. The branches may eleven be coated in ice. While this may look picturesque, the ice can damage vulnerable shrubs and trees. Fortunately, there are ways you can treat and protect your ice-covered trees and shrubs. Scientific Plant Service can provide the guidance you need to understand when care is needed and when you should leave ice-covered branches alone.
First, Evaluate the Ice-Covered Shrubs
If you notice that your shrubs or trees are covered in ice, carefully inspect the branches. Inspect the situation from a safe distance, especially if inspecting a tree covered in heavy snow. Make sure your ice-covered branches are not near any power lines because electricity can travel through the ice. If you do notice proximity to power lines, contact your utility company for the safe removal of those branches.
How to Tend to Ice-Covered Shrubs
If the ice-covered limbs are covering parts of your property, or hanging down precariously, do not attempt to cut these branches yourself. Ice is dangerous and is even more so if you use power tools. If you require pruning, contact the experienced team at Scientific Plant Service.
However, first ask if you can wait for the ice to melt off the broken limbs. Once the ice is removed, you can call an arborist to address damaged or split branches.
Start Small
You can do a few things yourself to care for your ice-covered trees. For example, clear away ice and snow on the branches of small trees and shrubs that you can safely reach from the ground. Avoid overhead ice and let it melt naturally. If you attempt to remove it, the ice may fall on you.
What Not to Do When Treating Ice-Covered Trees
The following actions will cause more harm than good:
- Do not shake branches to remove ice or snow. Branches holding a heavy snow load may easily break off and fall.
- Do not use a broom or rake to remove large amounts of ice or snow. Heavy, unpredictable loads on a vulnerable tree limb can be dangerous to you.
- Do not spray your trees with water to wash off snow. You will likely just create more ice.
- Do not salt your trees or shrubs to melt the ice! De-icing products easily damage shrub and tree tissue. The leftover chemical slush will soak into the soil and then damage the roots.
Remember to be patient and trust the experts when caring for your ice-covered trees and shrubs. Soon, the ice will melt, and you can help your plants return to normal health.
Scientific Plant Service Is Your Go-To Source In Landscape Healthcare
Scientific Plant Service, located in Baltimore, is a privately owned corporation, chartered in Maryland in 1957 by Frank J. Burke. We started as a full-service Arborists specializing in the care of shade trees and ornamental shrubs, but today we are a Lawn Care company that is a huge part of the community. From aquatic environments and snow management to deer and mole control, SPS has services tailored specifically for your lawn and landscape.
We offer services in Maryland, Washington, DC, and Virginia, including: Harford, Baltimore, Carroll, Frederick, Howard, Anne Arundel, Montgomery, Prince Georges, Talbot, Queen Anne’s, Calvert counties in MD, as well as Loudoun County, Fairfax County, Arlington, Alexandria, and Falls Church in VA. For more information, contact us online, or call us at 410-321-0970. Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Pinterest.