April showers bring May flowers, right? Well, unfortunately they can also bring lightning damage, particularly on your trees. Nashvillians are patiently waiting while the multiple storms pass through the Middle Tennessee area, but it’s important to understand the signs of damaged trees and limbs as they come barrelling through. Trees are incredibly susceptible to lightning and should be monitored regularly by the Parke Company’s certified arborists.
Trees are especially vulnerable to lightning damage because of their height. Trees isolated on hills, near water, vast lawns, landscapes or in fields are even more likely to be struck. And depending on the severity, lightning strikes can completely destroy your tree. (In which case, emergency tree care is necessary.) But there are times when trees are damaged and it’s hard to determine if it’s due to lightning because the symptoms do not manifest until weeks later. That’s why it’s important to call a certified arborist who will be able to assist you with proper tree care and guide you in a treatment plan for the affected tree.
Symptoms of lightning damage include:
- Your tree dies within a few days or weeks after being struck
- Your tree loses its leaves unexpectedly
- Sunken or “dead” spots appear along the trunk or branches
- Cracks develop down the side of the trunk
Trees are rather vulnerable to lightning so it’s important to protect them, especially if they are protected or historic trees. The Parke Company can install protective measures for your trees to decrease the likelihood of damage from a lightning strike. This is especially important if trees are near your home or business. However, these are difficult systems and should not be done without a professional arborist. In order to ensure long-term protection and correct installation, call the Parke Company and speak with a certified professional about installing one in your landscape.
Tree care doesn’t just stop with check-ups and evaluations. If you notice that your trees have symptoms of lightning damage, call the Parke Company to discuss options for tree health care and lightning protection.
Operating an irrigation system for your property is an involved task. It’s important to know all of your options in order to maintain the quality of your lawn while respecting the limitations of your budget. Sometimes, an entire renovation of the existing irrigation system is necessary. However, a lot of times it’s appropriate to just provide the system with irrigation additions, which can increase the lifespan. Here are some add-ons to consider:
Tennessee becomes a bit more beautiful when we plant a new tree. Planting a tree does not have to be saved for Arbor Day or Earth Day either. For many Nashvillians, it’s a great outdoor activity for the family or even organization, especially during the autumn season. Not only can you learn a lot about the basics of planting and treecare, but you’re also learning to appreciate nature. Here are a few simple things to consider if you’re planning to plant your own tree.
The Parke Company understands the importance of planting trees. (Hey, that’s why they’re in business!) But it can also be a great activity for family or friends if you know how to plant it right. However, if you’re ever in doubt, always feel free to call the Parke Company for professional tree service at (615) 405-6548.
As part of the Tennessee Bicentennial Project in 1994, The City of Forest Hills established Bison Meadow. Bison Meadow, a mirror of the prairies that once prospered in the state, is filled with wildflowers, trees and Indian grass. Staying true to its history, the 2.5-acre of land is on part of the state’s Natchez Trace and embodies the wild ecosystem that was once there. (Thanks to landscape architect Tara Armistead.) As part of Natchez Trace, bison, elk and other large mammals traveled through this prairie to get to the large salt lick along the Cumberland River.
Landscape, construction or Tennessee wildlife can be hard on those exposed tree roots in your yard, especially weed eaters or the metal sides of a mower. (Oh, and let’s not forget that it can damage the equipment too!) And most of the time the big, unanswered question is, “oh… is that bad for the tree?” Well, constant running over surface roots will weaken them and create entrances for insects and other infestations. However, if the damage is done, consult the Parke Company on what options are available on proper tree care and how to fix it.