hard maple struck by lightning - Ask Extension
We have a mature 50 foot + hard maple that was struck by lighting it appears. Someone came today asking if we want it cut down. He is telling us...
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hard maple struck by lightning #888977
Asked October 29, 2024, 11:18 AM EDT
We have a mature 50 foot + hard maple that was struck by lighting it appears.
Someone came today asking if we want it cut down. He is telling us it won't survive just cutting out the damaged part. Is this true of a sales job?
I am trying to upload photos but unable to it appears. Help
Madison County Ohio
Expert Response
It may survive. It really depends on the tree and the extent of the damage. These articles provides some good guidelines you can use to assess the tree:
https://acreagenebraska.org/2024/05/22/lightning-strikes-will-my-tree-survive/
https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/forestry/caring-for-lightning-struck-trees/
If the tree appears to be a fall threat that would damage structures or pose injury, it should be taken down. Otherwise, you can wait and see how it recovers next spring.
If you want to send pictures, you can email them to <personal data hidden> but I think you can make a decent assessment with the resources above.
https://acreagenebraska.org/2024/05/22/lightning-strikes-will-my-tree-survive/
https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/forestry/caring-for-lightning-struck-trees/
If the tree appears to be a fall threat that would damage structures or pose injury, it should be taken down. Otherwise, you can wait and see how it recovers next spring.
If you want to send pictures, you can email them to <personal data hidden> but I think you can make a decent assessment with the resources above.