Do You Have Storm-Damaged Trees?

Summer storm season is here, and many people are in the process of – or soon will be – dealing with damaged trees on their property.

Summer storm season is here, and many people are in the process of – or soon will be – dealing with damaged trees on their property. According to Gail Nozal, a certified arborist and director of plant healthcare for S&W Tree Specialists, it is critical to call a professional arborist when your trees are damaged after a storm. “If you have a tree that is leaning, it’s important to be cautious when approaching it, because it may have electrical lines below that could be dangerous. Be safe and call an arborist when in doubt,” says Gail. “And it’s always a good idea to research tree companies before choosing one. A reputable tree care company is going to meet certain qualifications that will protect you as a customer.”

Gail explains that there are several things to consider when hiring a tree care company. “Having knowledge is power, because you’re protecting yourself,” she says. The very first question to ask is: “Does the company have the proper insurance and proof of insurance?” If they do not have the correct insurance and a worker is injured while on your property, you could be held legally responsible.

The second issue to consider when shopping for a tree care company is whether they employ ISA certified arborists. Certification from the International Society of Arboriculture ensures that arborists have reached a high level of education and training in tree care.

Gail advises consumers to also make sure the company provides you with a written proposal detailing the scope of the work. “This is a safety net for you and keeps the company held responsible for doing what they say they will.”

In addition, it is always smart to check out the company’s references and professional affiliations, such as the Professional Landcare Network (PLANET).

A top-notch tree care company has the knowledge and tools to properly treat your injured trees and guide them back to health. According to Gail, when a tree is damaged by storms it is under a certain element of stress. “We suggest fertilizing trees to respond to stress. Deep root fertilization is very important, and a professional can provide the proper fertilizers – either 11-22-22 or 16-6-12. Mulch is then applied two to four inches surrounding the base of the tree to protect against insects and other vulnerabilities.”

S&W Tree Specialists, formerly Wright Tree Care, began operations in Tulsa in 1993. The company joined with S&S Tree Service to become S&W on February 1, 2010. They offer emergency storm damage, tree pruning and removal, plant healthcare, tree planting and lawn care consultations for residential and commercial customers. “We are unique in that we provide full property and tree care within a single company,” says Gail.

S&W Tree Specialists is  accredited with the Tree Care Industry Association, and all of their arborists are ISA certified.

With a reputation for excellence in the Tulsa metropolitan area, they are the preferred vendor of Philbrook Museum. If you are in need of a reputable tree care company, call S&W Tree Specialists at (918) 437-0056 to learn more about their services.

For more information, contact

S&W Tree Specialists

14408 E. Marshall St.

Tulsa, OK 74116

(918) 437-0056