First, Assess the Damage

Before writing off a damaged tree as a "goner," homeowners should evaluate their trees by asking the following questions:

If you answered "yes" to the majority of these questions, there is a good chance for complete recovery. For assistance, hire an arborist trained to assess a tree’s condition and make proper correcting pruning cuts. Topping a tree is not an acceptable tree care procedure. Knowledgeable arborists will refuse to top a tree. There are better methods to reduce the size of a branch or trunk.

Then, Make the Decision

The questions listed above will help you make informed decisions about your trees. In general, the answer as to what to do about a particular tree will fall into one of three categories:

1: It's a Keeper

If damage is relatively slight, prune any broken branches, repair torn bark or rough edges around wounds, and let the tree begin the process of wound repair. (artwork courtesy of National Arbor Day Association http://www.arborday.org/media)

3: Say Goodbye

Some trees simply can't be saved or are not worth saving. If the tree has already been weakened by disease, if the trunk is split, or more than 50 percent of the crown is gone, the tree has lost its survival edge.

Straightening leaning trees- Many trees suffer friction failures that cause the tree’s root system to lift out of the ground as the tree leans over. Uprooted trees are often unnecessarily removed under the mistaken idea that they can not be saved. These leaning trees can be very dangerous especially if they are large and leaning toward property or areas that people frequent. Consult the service of a knowledgeable arborist if you are unsure about performing this work. Large trees are much more difficult to straighten than a relatively small or young tree. And straightening a large tree will require the use of heavy equipment. Most straightened trees should be staked or supported for six to 12 months while new roots grow to support the tree in the proper position.

 Beware of price gouging- Sometimes less credible tree services will take advantage of storm victims. Good tree work by qualified professionals is not inexpensive; however, poor work no matter the price paid can cost you a great deal. A reasonable price for professional tree work in Florida ranges from $75-$125 per worker per hour. This price includes liability and workman’s compensation insurance, as well as bucket trucks and equipment. It does not include heavier specialty equipment that may be needed such as cranes, loaders, etc., or hardware that may be installed in the tree. A good properly insured arborist will not mind if you call his or her insurance carrier to be sure the liability and workers’ compensation policies are in effect. If insurance is not in effect and an accident occurs, it becomes the homeowner’s problem.

 Financial recovery- Be aware that tree losses to your landscape, whether large or small, may be deductible from your taxes. Two steps must be taken to be able to claim this deduction:

1. Document the tree damage/loss with photos and an evaluation from a certified arborist who has experience appraising trees. Such a certified arborist will be able to provide you with an estimated dollar value for your loss. Even if the tree has already been removed, photos or videos that show the tree may provide enough information for an appraisal.
2. Consult the services of a tax professional. Even if you don’t have insurance, you may be entitled to some financial relief by taking advantage of a provision of the tax code which allows you to deduct casualty losses from your income tax.

Know your tree species- Some species are more prone to storm damage such as: older laurel oaks and water oaks, pines, Chinaberry, sweet gum, sycamore, Chinese tallow, mimosa, Southern red cedar and Chinese elm trees. Some of the strongest trees during storms are Southern live oak, Southern magnolia, and sabal (cabbage) palms. (click here for more information on recognizing hazard trees)