Post-Hurricane Isaac Advice and News

Hurricane Isaac has knocked many of our urban trees off axis. Leaning trees must be erected immediately in order to avoid the roots re-establishing in the crooked position, and possible death of the trees.

The following links will take you to information about how to straighten trees that have been blown over by a storm:

Dan Gill Video

LSU Ag Center: Dealing with post-storm landscape

University of Florida: Assessing post-storm damage

University of Minnesota: Techniques for staking

Young trees can be uprighted with or without a stake. You will need 2-3 people to accomplish this effort. Use good judgement about safety. If the tree is too big, call a professional!

Without a stake: If you are spearheading a tree straightening effort in your neighborhood you may be encountering a lack of supplies such as staking materials.

Gently dig soil from around the tree you are straightening. Avoid cutting the roots of the tree and try to bury the roots back into the ground. Then carefully upright the main trunk of the tree, taking care not to break any branches. Next place the fill dirt around the base of the tree and tamp it in with your feet. Water the tree and mulch.

With a stake: You will need 2 stakes. Place one stake opposite where the tree is leaning, and another stake opposite that. Tie strong rope or wire around the tree and gently push the tree upright. Where the rope or wire touches the wood, make sure to cushion it with a piece of garden hose to keep it from injuring the tree. Then attach the wire/rope to the stakes and tamp the stakes into the ground. Leave the stakes in place for 9-12 and then they must be removed.