Hail Damage to Trees

Hail seriously affects the health of trees.

Trees with hail damage need immediate attention from gardeners to prevent them from sustaining fatal diseases. The right care for hail-damaged trees helps bring them back to health.

Fruit Trees

Fruit trees are susceptible to fire blight after hail, a disease that is often untreatable. Spray any fruit trees with a copper spray or streptomycin within the first four to 18 hours to protect the tree, according to Colorado State University.

Pruning

Pruning any broken or dead branches after hail is important for protecting the tree from rot. Rotting wood allows fungus to grow and spreads disease, as well as attracting harmful insect pests to the tree. Prune and remove branches.

Damage Care

After trees sustain hail damage, increasing their regular care helps restore their health. Adding fertilizer or compost to the soil around the damaged tree gives it the nutrients it needs to repair itself. Spraying for pests reduces the number of harmful insects that can do further damage to the tree.

References

• University of Colorado; Backyard Orchard: Apples and Pears; C. E. Swift, et al; Mar. 2007
• University of Missouri Extension; Fire Blight; Christopher J. Starbuck, et al; Aug. 2007

Resources

• University of North Dakota; Questions on Apple Environmental Damage; Ron Smith