How to Protect Your Trees from Autumn Storms in Blackburn

If you’ve ever looked out the window after an autumn storm and noticed snapped branches or fallen trees, you’re not alone.

For property owners in Blackburn, where high winds and heavy rain are common come October, the safety and health of your trees is not just a landscaping concern, it’s a serious property risk.

At NorthernArb Tree Services, we often get calls after the damage is already done. But the good news is, tree protection in Blackburn doesn’t have to be reactive. In this post, we’ll show you how to safeguard your trees and your property before the weather takes a turn.

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are our tried-and-tested tips to protect your trees from seasonal storm damage.

1. Schedule a Professional Tree Survey

A tree health check is the first step to spotting early signs of weakness. At NorthernArb, we offer detailed tree surveys in Blackburn, assessing:

• Root stability
• Branch structure
• Fungal infections or rot
• Tree lean or crown imbalance

Learn More About Our Tree Surveys

2. Prune Dead or Overextended Branches

Branches that are diseased, dead, or extending too far from the trunk are more likely to snap during high winds. Strategic pruning helps reduce:

• Wind resistance
• Weight strain on the canopy
• Risk of branch failure over buildings, fences, or power lines

Our tree protection services in Blackburn include professional pruning and deadwooding to support long-term tree health.

3. Install Cabling or Bracing for At-Risk Trees

Not all trees need to be removed, some can be saved with the right support systems. We install flexible bracing and cabling for trees with:

• Multiple stems (co-dominant)
• Previous storm damage
• Shifting root plates

This is particularly valuable for commercial grounds or conservation areas.

4. Clear Surrounding Ground & Improve Drainage

Soggy soil weakens root anchorage. Ensuring good drainage and clearing debris at the base of trees helps prevent uprooting during storms.

Simple fixes might include:

• Installing mulch correctly
• Redirecting water flow
• Avoiding soil compaction near the root zone

Let’s clear up some common misconceptions that can cost property owners dearly.

“The tree looks fine from the outside.”

Internal decay often isn’t visible. A hollow trunk or root rot can cause total failure during storms. Don’t rely on appearances; book an expert inspection.

“I’ll just cut a few branches myself.”

DIY tree work can be dangerous and cause more harm than good. Improper cuts lead to infection, structural weakness, and uneven regrowth.

“It’s only a small tree, it’s not a risk.”

Even smaller trees can cause significant damage to vehicles, sheds, or fencing when blown over. Size doesn’t equal safety.

At NorthernArb, we’re not just here to clean up the mess; we help prevent it.

With over 200 five-star reviews and extensive experience working across domestic and commercial properties in Blackburn and the North West, we provide:

• Emergency tree assessments
• Seasonal pruning and storm preparation
• Crane and machinery-assisted removals
• Tree surveys and health reports
• Ongoing maintenance programmes

Protecting your trees this autumn isn’t just about preservation; it’s about safety, responsibility, and peace of mind. Whether you’re managing a commercial estate or your own garden in Blackburn, taking a proactive approach now can save you thousands in emergency work later.

Let us help you keep your trees strong, safe, and storm-ready.