Lars Lentz/istockphoto
READ MORE ABOUT:
Planting a tree is a great way to help the environment. A tree will remove about 2,000 lbs of CO2 from the atmosphere in its lifetime. That’s the same amount of CO2 saved by going vegetarian or skipping a cross-country flight. A tree can also be used to filter over 2,000 gallons of runoff, cleaning it before it goes back into the watershed.
Trees also attract lightning, and it is completely possible that your tree can be struck. What do you do when your tree gets struck?
What to Do If Your Tree Gets Struck By Lightning
The first thing that you need to do is to make sure that you, your family and your neighbors are safe. Dangling limbs and loose branches should be dealt with as soon as possible. If there is extensive damage to the tree, an arborist should be called to consult.
A tree that has been struck by lightning may survive the blast. However, if the tree is extensively damaged, it becomes susceptible to rot, decay, environmental stress and disease. Rosie Lerner of Purdue University suggests taking a wait and see approach. The University of Minnesota explains that it may take a year to know for certain if the tree will pull through.
Can You Prevent Lightning Strikes?
You can prevent lightning strikes with a lightning protection system. This system is quite expensive to install and maintain. It’s only recommended if the tree is rare, historic or a specimen tree.
More on Trees
Plant 20 Trees this Year, Be Carbon Neutral + 4 More Reasons to ...
Worried About Water Pollution? Plant a Tree : Planet Green
Plant Trees Outside and Save Energy Inside : Planet Green
Got a tip or a post idea for us to write about on Planet Green? Email pgtips (at) treehugger (dot) com.
-
- {}
