Greetings. The Great Snowpocalypse of 2021 seems like ancient history now, particularly considering the terrible damage from this year’s severe ice storm at the beginning of February.
Like most of us, our trees are recovering from the storms. However, many tree species have hidden dangers high in their canopies. These trees have been nicknamed “zombie trees.” Like horror movie zombies, zombie trees are the living dead. More accurately, some parts of some affected trees are dead. Branches high in tree canopies suffered freeze-damaged vascular tissue. In many cases, these branches are dead or all but dead and they can be difficult to identify from the ground or with an untrained eye. These branches can have a high likelihood of failing (breaking.)
There are many species that have been affected. Here are a few:
Arizona ash trees
Chinese tallow
Chinaberry
Post oak
Texas red oak
What are the potential indicators of problems in these dead or dying branches? Many species, particularly oaks, are affected by hypoxylon canker. Hypoxylon in oak species can be an indicator of profound stress or damage. All the species noted above can also have dead or dying branches affected by sap rot or small wood decay fungi. These branches are often imminent or probable for failure. These conditions can be difficult to differentiate from lichen or normal discolorations in bark.
I have reviewed many trees with apparent freeze damage and in most cases can identify problem branches. Sometimes the situation calls for a climbing assessment. Climbing trees with the potential for damaged or dead branches can be hazardous. It is important to use only skilled, experienced, and properly insured climbers for climbing assessments.
What is the prognosis for zombie trees? The prognosis varies from tree to tree and can depend on the percentage and size of affected branches in the canopy. Many trees have survived the freeze but the tree’s viability as a plant in the landscape can depend on many factors. The most significant factors are dependent on the homeowner’s perspective which I have found to vary considerably from person to person.
Give us a call if you are concerned that a tree has suffered from freeze damage, and you need a trained and objective eye to assess condition. I have reviewed many of these trees and led many clients through the assessment process. Don’t let your zombie trees become a horror movie (said tongue in cheek)!
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Scott George
President
Austin Beautiful Trees, Inc.
