Spring is the time for rain, and as of recently, storms as well, abundant with torrential downpours, lightning, and thunder. Although rain and thunder are not really threats to your property, lightning strikes are. And lightning is especially attracted to trees. If you are concerned about the safety of your landscaping trees this season, add some things to your tree care to-do list to protect them against lightning damage.
Continue reading to learn a strategic tree care method that can effectively prevent lightning strikes to trees, plus what to do if a tree sadly falls subject to one.
Tree Protection is an Essential Part of Tree Care
Trees are important assets, adding both appeal and function to our properties. Not only do trees make our landscapes look nicer, but they also provide protection against wind, snow, excessive sun exposure, and much more. One of the most essential elements of a tree care plan is tree protection. When it comes to lightning strikes, sadly, most trees don’t survive. So, if you live in a region like Indiana that sees a lot of rainstorms, it is wise to incorporate lightning strike protection to abate the risk.
Why Do Trees Get Struck By Lightning?
Trees are common targets of lightning strikes because they are excellent conductors of electricity. Trees are filled with water, which is a prime electrical conductor. Also, trees are tall, and reach great heights in the sky. This tends to put them at the front of the line when it comes to a lightning bolt striking from above.
Lightning Strike Prevention for Trees
The number one method of preventing lightning strikes in trees that involves installing a copper cable that is connected to a lightning rod. This rod is attached to the tip of the tree and is designed to attract and divert electrical currents coming from lightning in the sky. The copper cable runs down a copper pole that is staked in the ground next to the tree but outside of the tree’s drip line. The cable should never be attached directly to the tree. In fact, the tree is typically fitted with specialized fasteners that prevent any contact from happening.
It is not recommended to install lightning strike prevention systems yourself. Although lightning strike protection for trees can come with an expensive price tag, the mitigation of lightning strike damage to your landscaping trees is an essential strategy toward increasing your property’s resale value.
If your tree was struck by lightning, is it wise to have it removed for reasons of safety, but to also prevent pest infestations. Contact Timberland Tree Care at 317-348-0811 for licensed and insured tree removal service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial customers.
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