Virginia’s Tree Care: Guide to Maintaining Your Property’s Crown Jewels

From Chesapeake, Special thanks to Treeremovaldesmoines.com, for writing this article for us.

Anyone who’s watched the seasons change in Virginia knows our trees tell a different story every few months. From the cherry blossoms painting Arlington pink in spring to the mighty oaks in Richmond’s historic districts blazing with fall colors, Virginia’s trees face unique challenges through each season. The scorching summers along the James River and sudden winter freezes in the Shenandoah Valley mean tree care here isn’t one-size-fits-all.

Between coastal storms battering Virginia Beach and mountain snow crushing branches in Roanoke, Virginia’s trees need specific care based on where they grow. The red clay soil around Charlottesville holds moisture differently than the sandy earth in Tidewater, changing how roots grow and what care trees need. Add in the humidity that blankets Richmond all summer, and you’ve got growing conditions that can either nurture or stress trees depending on how you manage them.

Maintaining healthy trees not only enhances the beauty of your property but also contributes to its overall value and safety. Regular tree care is crucial for preventing potential hazards such as falling branches and pest infestations. Learn how  can assist you in keeping your trees in pristine condition while offering exclusive discounts on their services.

Take those ancient oaks lining Monument Avenue – they’ve survived a century of Virginia weather because someone understood what they needed. Or look at the younger maples popping up in Northern Virginia’s new developments – they’ll only reach their full potential if they get the right care from the start. The old saying goes that the best time to plant a tree was twenty years ago, but the second best time is now. The same goes for tree care – it’s never too late to start doing it right.

Let’s explore how Virginia’s unique climate zones, from the mountains to the coast, shape the way we need to care for our trees. Whether you’ve got a sprawling property in the Shenandoah Valley or a compact yard in Virginia Beach, understanding these basics will help keep your trees healthy through every season our state throws at them.

How Coastal Storms Hit Virginia Beach Trees Differently Than Inland Areas

Virginia Beach, with its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, faces unique challenges when it comes to tree care, especially during coastal storms. These storms, which include hurricanes, nor’easters, and tropical storms, bring strong winds, heavy rainfall, and salt spray—factors that inland areas like Richmond or Charlottesville rarely experience in the same intensity. Understanding how these coastal storms affect trees is crucial for maintaining their health and ensuring the safety of your property.

Key Differences Between Coastal and Inland Storm Impacts

1. Wind Intensity and Direction
   • Coastal storms often bring stronger, more sustained winds compared to inland storms. The open expanse of the ocean allows winds to build momentum, reaching higher speeds by the time they hit Virginia Beach.
   • Inland areas, while still vulnerable to wind damage, are often shielded by natural terrain, buildings, or other trees, reducing the direct impact.
2. Salt Spray and Soil Salinity
   • Coastal storms carry salt spray from the ocean, which can settle on leaves, branches, and soil. Over time, this salt buildup can damage foliage, stunt growth, and even kill trees that aren’t salt-tolerant.
   • Inland areas don’t face this issue, as their storms lack the salt component. This makes coastal tree care more complex, requiring regular rinsing of foliage and soil testing to monitor salinity levels.
3. Flooding and Soil Erosion
   • Coastal areas are more prone to flooding due to storm surges and heavy rainfall. Prolonged water exposure can suffocate tree roots, leading to root rot and instability.
   • Inland flooding, while still a concern, tends to be less severe and drains more quickly due to differences in soil composition and elevation.
4. Tree Species Vulnerability
   • Trees in Virginia Beach are often species adapted to coastal conditions, such as live oaks or loblolly pines. However, even these hardy trees can struggle under repeated storm stress.
   • Inland areas have a wider variety of tree species, many of which are less tolerant of coastal conditions. For example, a sugar maple in Richmond might fare better in a storm than a coastal tree, simply because it doesn’t face salt spray or sandy soil challenges.

Past Events and Lessons Learned

Looking back at past storms can provide valuable insights for tree care in coastal areas. For example:

• Hurricane Isabel (2003): This storm caused widespread tree damage in Virginia Beach, with many trees uprooted due to saturated soil and high winds. Homeowners learned the importance of proper pruning and root care to prevent future losses.
• Nor’easters (Frequent Events): These storms, while less intense than hurricanes, can still cause significant damage over time. Salt spray from these events has been known to weaken trees, making them more susceptible to disease and pests.

These events highlight the need for proactive tree care, especially in coastal regions. Regular maintenance, such as pruning dead branches, strengthening root systems, and selecting storm-resistant species, can make a significant difference in how trees withstand future storms.

Tree Care Tips for Coastal Areas

To protect your trees from the unique challenges of coastal storms, consider the following steps:

1. Choose the Right Species
   • Opt for salt-tolerant trees like live oaks, southern magnolias, or bald cypresses. These species are better equipped to handle coastal conditions.
2. Regular Pruning
   • Remove dead or weak branches before storm season to reduce the risk of breakage. Proper pruning also improves airflow, making trees less likely to topple in high winds.
3. Soil Management
   • Test soil regularly for salinity levels. If salt buildup is detected, flush the soil with fresh water to dilute the salt concentration.
   • Add organic matter to improve soil structure and drainage, reducing the risk of root rot during floods.
4. Windbreaks and Barriers
   • Plant shrubs or install fences to act as windbreaks, reducing the direct impact of strong winds on your trees.
5. Post-Storm Care
   • After a storm, inspect your trees for damage. Look for cracks, leaning trunks, or exposed roots, and address these issues promptly to prevent further harm.

Why This Matters for Your Property

Healthy trees are more than just a visual asset—they’re a critical part of your property’s safety and value. In coastal areas like Virginia Beach, where storms are a regular occurrence, taking steps to protect your trees can prevent costly damage and ensure they continue to thrive for years to come.

What to Check After Ice Storms

Ice storms in Virginia typically hit hardest between December and February, though late fall and early spring can also bring freezing rain. These storms coat trees in a thick layer of ice, adding immense weight to branches and trunks. Even the strongest trees can struggle under this pressure, leading to snapped limbs, split trunks, or complete uprooting. Once the ice melts, it’s crucial to assess your trees for damage and take action to prevent further issues.

Start by inspecting the canopy. Look for hanging or broken branches that could fall and cause injury or property damage. Check the trunk for cracks or splits, especially near the base, as these can weaken the tree’s structure. Don’t forget to examine the roots—if the ground is soft or the tree is leaning, it might be unstable and at risk of falling. If you notice any major damage, it’s best to call a professional arborist to evaluate the tree’s safety.

For smaller branches, you can prune them yourself using clean, sharp tools. Make clean cuts close to the trunk or main branch to encourage proper healing. Avoid leaving stubs, as these can become entry points for pests and diseases. If the tree has lost a significant amount of its canopy, it may need extra care in the coming months, like watering during dry spells or fertilizing to support recovery.

Ice storms can also reveal weaknesses in trees that weren’t obvious before. For example, a tree with poor structure or pre-existing damage is more likely to fail under the weight of ice. Use this as an opportunity to address these issues and improve your tree’s long-term health.

Emergency Numbers to Keep Handy in Case of Tree Fall

When a tree falls during or after a storm, quick action is essential to ensure safety and minimize damage.

Emergency Service	Phone Number	Description
General Emergency (Police, Fire, Medical)	911	For all life-threatening emergencies, including those involving fallen trees.
Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT)	1-800-367-7623	To report fallen trees blocking state roads or highways.
Local County Maintenance (for local roads)	703-877-2800	For reporting fallen trees on county streets and roads.
Dominion Energy (Power Lines)	1-866-366-4357	To report downed trees affecting power lines or electrical hazards.
NOVEC (Northern Virginia Electric Cooperative)	1-888-335-0500	For reporting outages or issues related to trees and power lines.
Timberlake’s Tree Service Chesapeake	757-300-5753	Serving All of Hampton Roads, licensed and insured.
Emergency Tree Services (Richard’s Tree Service)	703-354-3667	For immediate assistance with tree removal after a storm or emergency.
Absolute Tree Service	703-969-6207	24/7 emergency tree service for quick response to fallen trees.
Jeovani’s Tree Service	540-530-4860	Emergency tree removal services throughout Northern Virginia.
Greenville Tree Service	571-244-3838	24/7 emergency service for tree-related incidents and storm damage cleanup.

• If a tree falls on your home or poses an immediate danger, first ensure everyone’s safety and call 911.
• For non-life-threatening situations involving fallen trees on public roads, contact VDOT or your local county maintenance department.
• Always avoid touching downed power lines; report them immediately to the respective utility company.

Here are some key contacts to have on hand:

• Local Arborist or Tree Care Service: Look for a certified arborist in your area who can handle emergency tree removal and assessment.
• Utility Companies: If a fallen tree has taken down power lines, contact your local utility company immediately. Do not approach the tree or wires yourself.
• Emergency Services: For life-threatening situations, such as a tree falling on a home or vehicle, call 911 right away.
• Insurance Provider: Keep your homeowner’s insurance information handy to report damage and start the claims process.

Emergency Prep Before Hurricanes Roll Up the Coast

Hurricanes are a serious threat to Virginia, especially in coastal areas like Virginia Beach. These storms bring high winds, heavy rain, and flooding, which can wreak havoc on trees and property. Preparing ahead of time can save you a lot of stress and damage. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get ready before the storm hits:

1. Inspect Your Trees Early
   • Walk around your property and look for trees with dead branches, cracks in the trunk, or signs of disease. These are the most likely to fail during a hurricane.
   • Pay special attention to trees close to your house, power lines, or other structures. If a tree looks unstable, call an arborist to assess it.
2. Prune Weak or Overhanging Branches
   • Remove any dead or weak branches that could snap off in high winds. This reduces the risk of them becoming projectiles.
   • Trim branches that hang over your roof, driveway, or power lines. Keep them at least 10 feet away from structures.
3. Secure Young or Newly Planted Trees
   • Young trees with shallow roots are more likely to topple in strong winds. Use stakes and ties to anchor them securely.
   • Make sure the ties aren’t too tight—you don’t want to damage the bark.
4. Clear Debris from Your Yard
   • Pick up any loose branches, garden tools, or outdoor furniture. These can get picked up by the wind and cause damage.
   • Clean out gutters and drains to prevent water from pooling around your trees’ roots.
5. Have an Emergency Kit Ready
   • Include essentials like a chainsaw, gloves, tarps, and rope for quick cleanup after the storm.
   • Keep the contact information of a local tree care service or arborist handy in case you need professional help.
6. Plan for Power Outages
   • If a tree falls on power lines, it could take days for utility crews to restore electricity. Have flashlights, batteries, and a backup power source ready.
7. Know Your Evacuation Routes
   • In case of severe flooding or damage, know how to leave your area safely. Keep your car fueled and have a go-bag packed with essentials.

Pine Beetles in Virginia Beach

Pine beetles are a big problem for Virginia Beach, especially if you have pine trees on your property. These tiny insects burrow into the bark and disrupt the tree’s ability to move water and nutrients. Over time, this can kill the tree and spread to others nearby. Here’s what you need to know:

Signs of Infestation

• Look for small holes in the bark, about the size of a pencil tip. These are entry points where the beetles have bored into the tree.
• You might also see sawdust-like material (called frass) around the base of the tree or in the bark crevices.
• The tree’s needles may turn yellow or brown, and the canopy might start thinning out.

Why It’s a Problem
Pine beetles are especially dangerous because they attack trees that are already stressed—whether from drought, disease, or storm damage. Once they infest a tree, they release chemicals that attract more beetles, creating a cycle of destruction.

What You Can Do

1. Keep Your Trees Healthy
   • Healthy trees are less likely to attract beetles. Water your pines during dry spells, and fertilize them if needed.
   • Avoid damaging the bark with lawn equipment, as wounds can attract beetles.
2. Remove Infested Trees
   • If a tree is heavily infested, it’s often best to remove it entirely. This prevents the beetles from spreading to nearby trees.
   • Burn or chip the wood to kill any remaining beetles.
3. Use Preventative Treatments
   • If you have valuable pines on your property, consider applying insecticide treatments. These are most effective when applied before an infestation starts.
   • Work with a certified arborist to choose the right treatment and timing.
4. Monitor Regularly
   • Check your pine trees every few weeks for signs of beetles. Early detection is key to stopping an infestation before it gets out of hand.

Pine beetles can cause serious damage, but with the right care and attention, you can protect your trees and keep your property safe.

Bradford Pears Splitting in NoVa Storms

Those Bradford pears lining NoVa neighborhoods? They’re time bombs in bad weather. Sure, they look nice for about two weeks in spring, but spend enough time around here and you’ll see them split right down the middle during storms. Last winter in Arlington, three of them cracked apart on one street after a heavy ice storm. The cleanup bill? More than replacing them would have cost.

Here’s what makes them so bad: These trees grow fast and grow wrong. The branches stack on top of each other, all fighting for the same space. Add some ice or wet snow – which we get plenty of around DC – and crack. The whole thing splits like a wishbone. Worse yet, it usually happens right over driveways or cars because that’s exactly where people plant them.

Trying to save them with cables or braces just delays the inevitable and costs more in the long run. Smart move? Take them out before they fall apart. Replace them with something that actually handles Virginia weather – maybe a dogwood if you still want spring flowers, or a serviceberry that won’t turn your yard into a disaster zone every time it storms.

Oak Root Problems:

Walk around Richmond’s older neighborhoods, and you’ll spot oaks that have stood for generations. But when these giants start having root troubles, you need to catch it fast – because a falling oak doesn’t give second chances. Root problems often show up months or years before a tree falls, and spotting them early makes all the difference.

Warning Signs:

• Ground cracking or lifting near the trunk
• Mushrooms growing around tree base – especially in fall
• Leaves turning early, starting at the top branches
• Less leaf growth each spring than the year before
• Soil sinking on one side of the tree
• Fine twigs dying back at the tree’s crown
• Trunk leaning more than 15 degrees
• Exposed roots showing damage or decay
• Branches dying on just one side of the tree
• New sprouts popping up from the base (stress signal)

Seasonal Care Calendar

Contact: Timberlake’s Tree Service Chesapeake 1310 20th St, Chesapeake, VA 23324 757-300-5753

Choosing a reliable tree removal company ensures that all work is conducted safely and efficiently. The team’s commitment to quality service means you can rely on them for all your tree care needs.