Snowstorm Damaged Trees & Shrubs in Colorado

Q: I’m sure you remember that last spring we had big, heavy snowstorms in April. Many of my trees and shrubs were permanently damaged. We removed the most badly damaged branches but my yard still looks like a bomb hit it. I am afraid to prune too much and cause more (worse) damage. Some of my young fruit trees were laid over. By the time I tried to prop them up they were stuck in that position. Help!

By Kelly Grummons: A: That’s a tall order for a quick Q and A but I’ll give it a try! First, hire a professional tree trimmer (ISA certified) to do much of the work, at least for the bigger trees. You are right, pruning trees and shrubs without any experience can be a disaster. If you want to give it a try, start with a very sharp folding tree saw and a very sharp pair of pruners. Using dull tools will make the job more difficult and frustrating. Remove dead or dying tissue but minimize “shaping”. Often, the plants will grow back and look good in a couple of seasons.

The young fruit trees that are laying down need to be righted asap before their new growth starts. You may have to cut through and loosen some of the roots that are resisting. This can be done with a sharp shovel. Once upright, use two or three tree stakes to hold them into place for 6-12 months until they grow new, stronger roots.