With last weekend’s rain came a short period of high wind that did cause some major tree damage, especially in the Hillcrest area of Ricardo.

Mesquites and some of the softer wood species have numerous broken branches, large limb splits, and in some situations are completely uprooted.

Treatment of storm-damaged trees requires wise decisions and prompt action if the maximum in repair work is to be achieved.

Repairs come in two stages: first aid for immediate attention and follow-up work to be distributed over a period of several months to several years.

The first decision to be made is to determine if the tree is damaged beyond repair.

When 50 percent of the main branches or trunk is severely split, broken or mutilated, extensive repair efforts are questionable.

The second factor to be considered is workmanship. How much work, expertise, and money is required to repair the damage.

Finally, extremely old, low vigor trees might not have recovery ability and may not justify the time and effort needed.

Once the decision has been made to save the tree, take the following steps:

Remove only the branches necessary for immediate repairs.

Too much removal of wood in one season can help create such problems as sun scald, weak branching habits and soft sucker growth. Patience, if in doubt wait and watch.

Support split branches with adequate guys or braces.

Avoid leaving stubs of branches; make branch removal cuts at side branches when possible.

Upright young uprooted trees and provide support with guys.

Place guys to brace the tree on all sides.

Follow-up is as important as immediate repair. Trees must be gradually pruned and reshaped over a period of three to five years for balance and appearance.

Conditions such as sucker sprouts, insects, and disease damage must be controlled during the healing process.

Periodical checks should be made on the progress of growth unions of reattached bark areas.

A tree is a valuable commodity in South Texas. Quick response and wise decisions will insure that Kingsville residents enjoy the beauty of area trees for years to come.