Got Nature? Blog

For more than 100 years, Purdue Extension has worked alongside Indiana communities, helping residents access research-based information, trusted expertise and local support. Now, an exciting new chapter is underway.

As part of Purdue Extension’s transformation to a statewide structure with 12 regional teams, Indiana communities will have greater access to specialized expertise, stronger collaboration across counties and new opportunities to connect with Extension professionals. Purdue Extension has transitioned to a regional model designed to bring together experts from agriculture and natural resources, health and human sciences, community development and 4-H while continuing to serve local needs throughout the state.

Stay Connected Through New Regional Websites and Facebook Pages
Each regional team now has its own online presence where community members can learn about programs, meet team members, discover upcoming events and find resources tailored to their area. These regional websites will serve as hubs for sharing local success stories, educational opportunities and ways to engage with Purdue Extension.

Be sure to follow your regional Purdue Extension office on Facebook to stay connected with local events, educational opportunities, resources and success stories from your area.

Region 1: Northwest (website coming soon)
Facebook: Purdue Extension Northwest Region
Counties served: Jasper, Lake, LaPorte, Newton, Porter, Pulaski, Starke and White

Region 2: North (website coming soon)
Facebook: Purdue Extension North Region
Counties served: Elkhart, Fulton, Kosciusko, Marshall and St. Joseph

Region 3: Northeast (website coming soon)
Facebook: Purdue Extension Northeast Region
Counties served: Adams, Allen, DeKalb, Huntington, LaGrange, Noble, Steuben, Wabash, Wells and Whitley

Region 4: North Central (website coming soon)
Facebook: Purdue Extension North Central Region
Counties served: Cass, Carroll, Clinton, Grant, Howard, Miami and Tipton

Region 5: West Central
Facebook: Purdue Extension West Central Region
Counties served: Benton, Fountain, Montgomery, Parke, Putnam, Tippecanoe, Vermillion, Vigo and Warren

Region 6: Central (website coming soon)
Facebook: Purdue Extension Central Region
Counties served: Boone, Hamilton, Hendricks, Hancock, Madison and Marion

Region 7: East Central
Facebook: Purdue Extension East Central Region
Counties served: Blackford, Delaware, Fayette, Henry, Jay, Randolph, Rush, Union and Wayne

Region 8: Southwest Central (website coming soon)
Facebook: Purdue Extension Southwest Central Region
Counties served: Clay, Daviess, Greene, Knox, Martin, Owen and Sullivan

Region 9: South Central (website coming soon)
Facebook: Purdue Extension South Central Region
Counties served: Bartholomew, Brown, Jackson, Johnson, Lawrence, Monroe, Morgan and Shelby

Region 10: Southeast (website coming soon)
Facebook: Purdue Extension Southeast Region
Counties served: Decatur, Dearborn, Franklin, Jennings, Jefferson, Ohio, Ripley and Switzerland

Region 11: Southwest (website coming soon)
Facebook: Purdue Extension Southwest Region
Counties served: Dubois, Gibson, Perry, Pike, Spencer, Vanderburgh, Warrick and Posey

Region 12: South
Facebook: Purdue Extension South Region
Counties served: Clark, Crawford, Floyd, Harrison, Orange, Scott and Washington

Explore Regional Highlights
Purdue Extension Announces Regional Operations Leaders, Purdue Extension News
Extension Launches Transformation, Purdue Extension
See Regional Impact in Action, Purdue Extension – West Central Impact, Creating Healthier Environments for Young Children
East Central Impact, From Research to the Field: Regional Collaboration at OPAC Field Day

Purdue Extension’s regional structure is built around a simple goal: helping communities thrive by connecting people with the expertise, resources and partnerships they need.

As these regional teams continue to grow, we invite you to explore your regional website, follow your regional Facebook page and discover new opportunities to connect with Purdue Extension.
Find your region. Follow your team. Stay connected.

More Resources:
Agriculture & Natural Resources (ANR), Purdue Extension
Find Your Purdue Extension County Office, Purdue Extension
Purdue Extension 2025 Annual Impact Report, Purdue Extension
Facebook, Purdue Extension
Subscribe – Purdue Extension YouTube Channel
Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – Forestry & Natural Resources (FNR)
Ask an Expert, Purdue Extension – FNR
Download Free Publications, Purdue Extension – FNR
Subscribe to Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel (videos include: aquaculture, fish management, urban and forestry management, natural resource planning, wildlife and sustainable biomaterials)
Purdue Extension resource center with additional publications – The Education Store

Purdue Extension

Diana Evans, Extension and Web Communication Specialist
Purdue University Department of Forestry and Natural Resources

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Several things come into play when it comes to determining the colors that we find on leaves of our trees. As our days get shorter and our nights get longer there is a chemical change that happens in the tree. In this video Lenny Farlee talks about the several pigments that are found in trees and what changes from summer to fall that brings us the bright colors on leaves.

Explore IndyStar Story Behind Our Fall Colors
For more on what determines the specific colors our leaves turn and how weather and other factors influence the fall display check out this recent IndyStar article: What determines what color leaves turn in the fall? The story features insights from Lenny Farlee, Purdue Extension forester, who shares his expertise on the science and beauty behind Indiana’s fall foliage.

Fall Foliage by Tree Species (click on the image to expand)

Resources:
Indiana Fall Foliage Map, Explore Fall
Why Fall Color is Sometimes a Dud, Purdue Landscape Report
U.S. Forest Service Website and Hotline, Highlight Fall Colors on National Forests
ID That Tree Fall Color: Sugar Maple, Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources YouTube Channel, ID That Tree Playlist
ID That Tree Fall Color Edition: Black Gum, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel, ID That Tree Playlist
ID That Tree Fall Color Edition: Shagbark Hickory, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel, ID That Tree Playlist
ID That Tree Fall Color Edition: Virginia Creeper, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel, ID That Tree Playlist
ID That Tree Fall Color Edition: Winged Sumac, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel, ID That Tree Playlist
Autumn Highlights Tour – South Campus, Purdue Arboretum Explorer
ID That Tree, Playlist, Subscribe to Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources YouTube Channel

Lenny Farlee, Extension Forester
Purdue University Department of Forestry and Natural Resources
Hardwood Tree Improvement & Regeneration Center (HTIRC)

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Many people in the Midwest know about and admire flowering dogwood trees and their distinctive spring flowers, which display conspicuous white or pink bracts (flower structures that resemble petals). Reportedly, George Washington and Thomas Jefferson were fans of this tree as well, planting them at their homes in Mount Vernon and Monticello, respectively. Did you know that we have nine native dogwood species in the Midwest?

I’m sourcing information from two books written by Purdue University experts, Native Trees of the Midwest and Shrubs and Woody Vines of Indiana and the Midwest.

All but one of our native dogwoods (Cornus spp.) have an opposite leaf arrangement, and the leaves look similar, with veins that form an arc that follows the leaf’s shape toward the tip. This characteristic is known as arcuate venation. Fruit can vary among species, exhibiting hues of red, white, or blue. Fall leaf color usually ends in a deep red color. Although I won’t cover pith color (the center of the stem) in detail here, pith color of first- and second-year twigs is usually another good tool for identification. Most species have red or green twigs that add winter interest.

Homeowners may concentrate on the traditional flowering dogwood (C. florida) tree. It is a small tree, usually not exceeding 30-40 feet in height. It is moderately shade-tolerant and may struggle in full sun in home landscapes. In natural areas, it is typically found mixed with hardwoods and conifers in open woods and woods’ edges in rich, well-drained soils.

In addition to the flowering dogwood tree, other native dogwoods are considered shrubs.

Pagoda dogwood (C. alternifolia) is a small tree-sized shrub reaching heights of 18 to 20 feet. Its layered branching with upswept branch ends on older specimens resembles the roof of a Japanese pagoda. This shrub is also known as alternate-leaf dogwood; it is the only native dogwood with an alternate leaf arrangement. Fall leaf color features multiple hues and usually ends in deep burgundy. It is a beautiful and popular choice in home landscapes.

Bunchberry or dwarf cornel (C. canadensis) is the smallest of the native dogwoods. At a maximum height of 8 inches, it is classified as a sub-shrub. It is more common in northern states because it is unable to survive in soil temperatures greater than 65 degrees. Underground rhizomes allow large colonies of this plant to form.

Swamp dogwood (a.k.a. southern swamp dogwood, stiff dogwood; C. foemina or C. stricta) is found mainly in southern Indiana counties in poorly drained woodlands. It can grow to 9 feet in forest understories.

Rough leaf dogwood (C. drummondii or C. asperifolia) is one of our largest native shrubby dogwoods, growing to 12-15 feet or more. As the name suggests, leaves are rough with hairs on the underside. This shrub is easy to grow, but it needs room to grow. Suckers will give rise to new plants but can be controlled with mowing. First-year twigs are reddish-brown with flattened hairs, turning gray and hairless the second year.

Silky dogwood or pale dogwood (C. obliqua or C. amomum) has reddish twigs and a brown pith. The bark is reddish gray with vertical light brown shallow fissures, unique to this dogwood. In nature, this shrub is found along ponds, lakes, streams, and swamps, so it is usually associated with water. It is relatively easy to grow and is commonly found in nurseries.

Gray dogwood or northern swamp dogwood (C. racemosa) only gets about 4-5 feet tall. It frequently forms dense clonal communities that offer cover to wildlife. It can be found in nurseries that specialize in native plants. It is adaptable to wet or dry locations.

Round-leaf dogwood (C. rugosa) is a 5-6 feet tall shrub, more commonly found in the northern tier of Indiana counties. It has pinkish-green, purple, or yellow twigs that become rough with age. As the name suggests, its leaves are broadly ovate (rounder) than those of other shrub dogwoods and may resemble the leaves of flowering dogwood trees. Root suckering can produce small clumps that become small thickets over time.

Red-osier dogwood (a.k.a. red twig dogwood or American dogwood; C. sericea or C. stolonifera) is especially adaptable and the most widely available native shrub dogwood in midwestern nurseries. Its wine-red twigs (when young) are a landscape feature that stands out in winter. Bark on older specimens turns from red to greenish and eventually to grayish-brown. At up to 9 feet tall, it is one of the larger dogwoods, and it’s easy to grow and maintain. In natural areas, it is found in wet, boggy places and is a sun-loving shrub that will tolerate some shade.
You may also come across other non-native dogwoods available in nurseries, such as kousa dogwood (C. kousa), Tatarian dogwood (C. alba), or cornelian cherry dogwood (C. mas).

Identifying dogwoods (especially the shrubs) can be difficult, partly because all the leaves look similar. Finding a good field guide or identification book will help. Some plant identification apps may do a decent job but may need to be double-checked by a good reference book. Find additional information at the Purdue Arboretum.

Resources:
Intro to Trees of Indiana: Flowering Dogwood – Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources (FNR)
Flowering Dogwood, Native Trees of Indiana River Walk, Purdue Fort Wayne
Fifty Common Trees of Indiana
Cornus alternifolia, The Purdue Arboretum Explorer
Native Trees of the Midwest, The Education Store, Purdue Extension’s resource center
An Introduction to Trees of Indiana, The Education Store
Shrubs and Woody Vines of Indiana and the Midwest, The Education Store
Investing in Indiana Woodlands, The Education Store
Forest Improvement Handbook, The Education Store
ID That Tree, Purdue Extension-Forestry and Natural Resources (FNR) YouTube Channel-playlist
Woodland Management Moment, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel-playlist

John E. Woodmansee, Extension Educator,
Agriculture/Natural Resources

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Purdue Landscape Report: Fall is one of my favorite times of year. The temperatures begin to cool, the humidity drops, and the landscape starts its annual transformation as trees trade their summer greens for shades of yellow, orange, and red. For those of us who enjoy spending time outdoors, it can also be one of the most pleasant times of year to work in the landscape.

As fall approaches, one question I frequently hear is:
“Is fall a good time to plant a tree?” The answer is yes!

In fact, fall can be an excellent time to add a new tree to your landscape. Cooler temperatures and decreased drought stress can make the transition from nursery to landscape less stressful for newly planted trees. As long as you select an appropriate tree, plant it correctly, and provide proper care after planting, a fall planting can give a tree an excellent start.

Why plant trees in the fall?
One of the biggest advantages of fall planting is the weather. Compared with the heat of summer, cooler fall temperatures reduce heat stress and typically lower evapotranspiration—the amount of water lost from plants and soil to the atmosphere.

Fall also shifts the tree’s priorities. Rather than putting most of its energy into producing new shoots and leaves, a deciduous tree is preparing for dormancy and continuing to develop its root system. Planting during this period can allow roots to become established before the tree has to deal with the heat and water demands of the following summer.

Of course, cooler temperatures and fall rainfall do not eliminate the need to water a newly planted tree. Newly installed trees still require regular attention while their root systems become established.

What should I consider when planting in the fall?
There are a few important considerations to keep in mind.

• Water is still important. If rainfall isn’t providing approximately 1 inch of water per week, newly planted trees will need supplemental irrigation. A useful general guideline is approximately 5 gallons of water per week for every inch of trunk diameter, although actual watering needs will vary depending on soil, weather, tree size, and site conditions. Rather than relying solely on a calendar, check the soil and adjust watering based on conditions.
• Don’t forget to mulch. Apply a layer of organic mulch over the root zone to help conserve soil moisture and moderate soil temperatures. Keep mulch away from direct contact with the trunk—avoid creating the familiar “mulch volcano” around the base of the tree.
• Give the tree time to establish. Ideally, trees should be planted early enough in the fall to allow their roots to become established before the ground freezes. A common recommendation is to allow approximately six weeks between planting and the first hard freeze.
• Choose the right tree for the site. Fall is a good planting season, but it doesn’t make a poorly matched tree a good choice.
• Consider the mature size of the tree, available growing space, soil conditions, sunlight, drainage, and other site characteristics before making your selection.Think about winter protection. Some trees, particularly broadleaf evergreens, may be more susceptible to winter injury because they continue to lose moisture through their leaves when the ground is frozen and roots cannot readily replace that water. Newly planted trees may also benefit from protection against trunk damage from wildlife or winter sun exposure, depending on the species and site.

Give your tree a good start
Planting a tree is a long-term investment. The work you put into selecting, planting, watering, and caring for a tree during its first few years can have a significant impact on its future health and structure.

So, if you’ve been waiting for cooler weather to add a tree to your landscape, fall can be a great time to get planting. Choose the right tree for the right place, plant it properly, and don’t forget about it once the leaves have fallen.

If you have questions about selecting, planting, or caring for a tree, contact your local Extension office or consult an ISA Certified Arborist for site-specific advice. You can find an ISA Certified Arborist through Find an Arborist.

Original article and Additional resources are available through the Purdue Landscape Report.

Subscribe and receive the newsletter: Purdue Landscape Report Newsletter.

Resources:
The Purdue Landscape Report
Planning the Tree Planting Operation, The Education Store
Tree Risk Management – Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – FNR
Tree Planting Part 2: Planting Your Tree, The Education Store
Planting Your Tree Part 1: Choosing Your Tree, Purdue Extension YouTube Channel
Summer Tree Care, Purdue Landscape Report
Tree Defect Identification, The Education Store
Tree Wound and Healing, Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources
Surface Root Syndrome, The Education Store
Shrubs and Woody Vines of Indiana and the Midwest, The Education Store
Ask an Expert: Tree Selection and Planting, Purdue Extension-Forestry & Natural Resources (FNR) YouTube playlist
ID That Tree, Purdue Extension-FNR YouTube playlist
Subscribe – Purdue Extension-FNR YouTube Channel

Ben McCallister, Urban Forestry Specialist
Purdue Forestry & Natural Resources

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As the crisp autumn air settles in and campfires become a seasonal staple, October brings an important reminder: your firewood choices matter. That’s why October is officially Firewood Month, a nationwide campaign to raise awareness about the risks of moving firewood and the spread of invasive forest pests.

Why “Don’t Move Firewood” Matters
Transporting firewood, even just a few miles, can unintentionally spread destructive pests like emerald ash borer, Asian longhorned beetle and spongy moth. These invaders often hide inside or on firewood, threatening Indiana’s forests, parks and urban trees.

The Don’t Move Firewood website offers excellent resources to help you make informed choices. Whether you’re heating a cabin, heading out to hunt, or planning a backyard bonfire, they recommend:

• Buying firewood where you’ll burn it
• Choosing certified heat-treated wood
• Gathering wood on-site when permitted

You can also explore their Firewood Month Toolkit, maps of regulations and a webinar series designed for professionals and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

While October is Firewood Month, the risk of spreading invasive pests lasts well beyond the fall. Many forest pests remain a threat throughout the year. Adults may still be visible until the first hard freeze, and egg masses can be observed from now through June. The spotted lanternfly females lay egg masses in late summer through early winter, often peaking in October. These masses can survive through winter and hatch in the spring. Learn more about the Spotted Lanternfly from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. This is why it’s important to practice safe firewood habits year-round.

Spotlight on ReportINvasive
Check out the latest post on the ReportINvasive Facebook which reinforces the importance of Firewood Month. ReportINvasive is a trusted source for updates on invasive species in Indiana, and their social media outreach is a great way to stay informed and engaged. Give the Facebook page a LIKE and FOLLOW for future webinars and workshops.

Concerned About Insects? Purdue Extension Entomology Can Help
If you suspect insect damage or want to learn more about forest pests, the Purdue Extension Entomology team is an outstanding resource. Their experts provide science-based guidance on insect identification, management strategies, and outreach materials to help protect Indiana’s ecosystems.

Let’s work together to keep Indiana’s forests healthy and resilient. This October, make the smart choice—don’t move firewood!

More Resources
Spotted Lanternfly – including map sharing locations, Indiana Department of Natural Resources
October is Firewood Awareness Month!, Purdue Landscape Report
Indiana Department of Natural Resources: Invasive Species
Indiana Invasive Species Council
Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (CISMA)
Aquatic Invasive Species, Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant (IISG)
Emerald Ash Borer Information Network, Purdue University and Partners
Invasive plants: impact on environment and people, The Education Store, Purdue Extension’s resource center
Entomology Weekly Review, Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Division of Entomology & Plant Pathology
Division of Entomology & Plant Pathology, Indiana Department of Natural Resources

Diana Evans, Extension and Web Communication Specialist
Purdue University Department of Forestry and Natural Resources

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Purdue Landscape Report: When considering trees, shrubs, and forbs or grasses to plant for landscaping, a little research in advance can lead to dual benefits for both the appearance of your planting area and a wildlife-friendly landscape. Our native wildlife species are tuned into using our native plant species, so selecting plants that are naturally found in your area is a first positive step for plantings that benefit native animals. This can happen at a lot of levels. Oaks are a good example of this multi-level benefit. We might naturally think of the acorns that oak trees produce as the major wildlife food benefit, and it is extremely important for a host of mammal and bird species including jays, turkey, squirrels and deer. It is less obvious, but no less important, that oaks support hundreds of insects that feed on their leaves and acorns, and those insects support many species of birds and other animals that feed on them. Indiana has over 17 species of oak trees native to the state, so there is an oak tree suited to almost any site or situation.

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Following a recent tornado in Monroe County, an Indiana homeowner noticed something remarkable among the storm damage. More than 30 trees, including walnut and butternut, were either uprooted or snapped. Yet several mature shagbark hickory trees stood largely untouched amid the destruction.

This observation prompted an interesting question: Is there something about shagbark hickory trees that makes them more resistant to tornadoes and high winds than other hardwood trees?

Answer: While every storm is different and no tree species is completely tornado-proof, the observation aligns with what foresters and arborists know about hickory wood.

Shagbark, along with other hickory species, is among one of the stronger trees native to Indiana. Because of its strength and shock-absorbency quality, hickory is a prime choice for tool handles and baseball bats as well as solid wood furniture and flooring.

Shagbark hickory (Carya ovata) is famous for more than its distinctive peeling bark. The wood itself possesses exceptional mechanical properties.

Hickory wood combines:

• High strength
• Notable elasticity
• Superior shock resistance
• High density

Together, these properties give hickory exceptional toughness – the capacity to absorb and redistribute energy before fracturing. This means its stems and branches may bend under wind loading rather than fail as abruptly as wood with lower toughness.

For that reason, hickory has long been valued for products subjected to repeated impacts. Traditional axe and sledgehammer handles, drumsticks, and baseball bats have often been made from hickory because it can absorb shock and withstand repeated bending stresses without breaking as readily as many other hardwoods.

Healthy Trees:
Healthy trees with vigorous growth and little decay generally withstand stress better than weakened trees. This is one reason why it is important to evaluate your trees before severe weather and storm season arrives. Identifying structural defects, dead branches, decay, or other potential hazards early can help reduce the risk of tree failure during high wind events. The following Purdue Extension-Forestry and Natural Resources (FNR) blog articles can help you assess your trees and recognize common warning signs:
Learn More – Got Nature? Blog Posts:
Tree Risk Management: What Every Property Owner Needs to Know
Spring Storms Are Coming: How to Reduce Tree Damage and Risk
Trees and Storms: Understanding Damage, Risk and Recover
Storms Can Cause Damage and Tree Cleanup: What You Need to Know
Southwest Damage, Scalding or Frost Cracking

Great Resource from The Education Store, Purdue Extension’s resource center:
Publication: Tree Defect Identification

Contact a Certified Arborist:
Consulting a certified arborist can help determine whether a damaged tree remains safe and healthy.
Find an Arborist, Trees are Good-International Society of Arboriculture (ISA)

Ben McAllister, Urban Forestry Specialist
Forestry & Natural Resources

More Resources:
Mechanical Damage to Trees: Mowing and Maintenance Equipment, Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – FNR
Planting Your Tree Part 1: Choosing Your Tree, Purdue Extension YouTube Channel
Tree Pruning Essentials Video, Purdue Extension YouTube Channel
Why Is My Tree Dying?, Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources (FNR)
Tree Wound and Healing, Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – FNR
Surface Root Syndrome, The Education Store
Report INvasive, Purdue Extension
Indiana Invasive Species Council
ID That Tree, Playlist, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel (Invasive White Mulberry, Siberian Elm, Tree of Heaven)
Fifty Common Trees of Indiana
Native Trees of the Midwest, Purdue University Press
Subscribe – Purdue Extension-FNR YouTube Channel

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Explore the latest newsletter updates on the Indiana Woodland Steward website. Stay up-to-date with forestry news and receive their free e-newsletter by subscribing at IWS Subscribe.

Highlights from the new Newsletter include:

• Ticks in Indiana Woodlands: Identification, Risk Reduction, and Prevention
  By Lee Green
  “Indiana’s forests, woodlots, and edge habitats support a diverse tick fauna that matters to both human and animal health. As reforestation has increased and wildlife hosts, especially white‑tailed deer, have…”
• How Emerging Digital Forestry Technologies Can Support Indiana Landowners
  By Erica Kronenberger and Zhao Ma
  Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Purdue University
  “Indiana is home to more than 4.8 million acres of forestland, of which 4.6 million acres are timberland, and this amount increases every year1. Eighty four percent of Indiana’s forests is…”
• Prescribed Burn Associations: Neighbors Helping Neighbors Bring Fire Back to Indiana’s Landscape
  By Danielle Howard
  “Indiana’s ecosystems are shaped by fire. And to help them thrive, we need to bring fire back. But how do we re-ignite…”
• Tree of Heaven, Ailanthus altissima
  By Lenny Farlee, Ron Rathfon, Don Carlson, Brian Beheler
  “Tree-of-heaven (ToH), also known as Chinese sumac, varnish tree, or stink tree, is a large, rapidly-growing deciduous tree native to parts of China. Tree-of-heaven was introduced …”
• Days Gone By Volumn 35 Number 2
  Constructing a corn crib from native hardwoods on Mr. Herbert C. Thomas’ property in Vermillion County (photos by Roy C. Brundage, undated).

The Indiana Woodland Steward Newsletter is a resource offering a wealth of valuable information for foresters, woodland owners, timber marketing specialists, woodland and wildlife enthusiasts. The Indiana Woodland Steward Institute (IWS) is an entity made from 11 organizations within the state including Purdue University, Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR), and Indiana Hardwood Lumbermen’s Association (IHLA), that works to promote best usage practices of Indiana’s woodland resources through their Woodland Steward publication.

Resources
Hardwood Ecosystem Experiment (HEE) website
Hardwood Ecosystem Experiment – Wildlife Responses to Timber Harvesting, Purdue Extension
Forest Improvement Handbook, The Education Store
Invasive plants: impact on environment and people, The Education Store
Managing Your Woods for White-Tailed Deer, The Education Store
Shrubs and Woody Vines of Indiana and the Midwest, Purdue University Press
Virtual Tour Brings Forest Management for Birds to Life, Got Nature? Blog Post, Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources (FNR)
Breeding Birds and Forest Management: the Hardwood Ecosystem Experiment and the Central Hardwoods Region, The Education Store
Deer Impact Toolbox, Purdue Extension
Grassland Management Series, Purdue Extension Pond and Wildlife Management
Birdfeeder tips, The National Audubon Society
Explore the Rich World of Oaks with Purdue FNR Extension & Partners, Purdue Extension – FNR
Managing Woodlands for Birds Video, Purdue Extension-Forestry and Natural Resources YouTube Channel
Subscribe: Deer, Forest Management, ID That Tree, Woodland Management Moment, Invasive Species and many other topic video playlists Purdue Extension-Forestry and Natural Resources YouTube Channel

Dan McGuckin, President
Indiana Woodland Steward

Dr. Brian MacGowan, Extension Wildlife Specialist
Department of Forestry & Natural Resources, Purdue University

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Trees are lost every year from storm-related events. Major damage to parts of the tree or even the entire tree can result from high winds, snow and ice. Historic, specimen and significant trees provide value to the landscape and the community, and these trees can become aesthetic, financial and social losses in storms. In addition to physical damage or loss, risk and liability can become a concern to people and the surrounding property. Seasonal storms can cause extensive damage depending on timing and intensity. Deciding what to do with damaged trees is an important process.

Over time, trees swaying in the wind develop extra strength to withstand directional forces. If conditions are consistent, trees will initiate changes in their development to compensate for these loading patterns. They are biologically engineered to adjust to external loading, under normal conditions. This fiber strength can minimize the impact of external forces, unless they are excessive, such as during a storm. Typically, these loads come from wind. However, ice and snow also can cause damage from excessive weight on branches.

Typical weather events are not an issue for trees. They are engineered to withstand normal conditions. However, some storms can exert extreme forces, resulting in injuries of varying degrees. It is at this point that a tree owner or manager must make an informed decision based on the extent of the damage. The assistance of a trained arborist can help determine if a tree can be saved from sustained injuries, or if it requires removal

The response to storm damage should be based primarily on two concepts: risk and sustainability. If the tree is an imminent or likely danger to people, property or activities, the decision leaves little room for options. However, if the residual risk from the damage is determined to be of an acceptable level and the injury to the tree not life- threatening, mitigation may be possible to save the tree and reduce the danger.

There are several types of tree damage that occur from violent weather. Each has its own specific assessment considerations. All parts of the tree should be inspected during a post-storm assessment.

Some common damage found includes:
Wind Throw
The entire tree is “pushed over” by high winds. The loading forces on the aerial tree portions are too great for the developed root system. Previous harm from activities such as construction damage, lack of maintenance and attacks from pests predisposes the tree to damage with poor anchorage or health. Inspect the root plate of each tree on a regular basis to determine if there are any root health issues. Look for fungal fruiting bodies, exposed roots, lifting or other damage. Larger or more mature trees that have been completely uprooted are typically not salvageable

Stem Failure
Trees will fail at their weakest point. Typically, failure is caused by the combination of a defect and external forces. Old injury sites or wounds are common on tree trunks, and these damaged areas can lead to tree failure under excessive loads. Also, trees newly exposed to prevailing winds from development or removal can be at greater risk. Trunks can snap or buckle if the tree is unable to withstand the wind forces. Damage from stem failure usually cannot be repaired. Trees with major defects on the trunk should be examined carefully to determine the degree of risk for that location. Look for decayed areas, cavities, nesting holes and fungal fruiting bodies for indicators. The extent and location of these defects will help the arborist determine the potential for failure.

Crown Twist
The tree canopy contains an array of leaves, twigs and branches that make up the crown portion of the tree.

Many times, the crown can have an uneven geometry from competition or poor pruning, leaving an unequal appearance. The result of this situation in high winds can be trouble. Uneven wind loading on the lopsided crown produces a damaging twist on major branches and the stem. This twisting causes torsional stress, much like twisting a rope backwards, resulting in splits and cracking. This is especially damaging around old wounds or other defects, which can lead to failure. Close investigation is necessary to spot these often-subtle cracks. Often this damage can be mitigated in branches; however, take caution with damaged trunks.

Root Failure
Stability and anchorage are important roles of the root system for keeping a tree upright.

Both the structural, woody roots and the fine absorbing roots create an effective network of strength to withstand wind-loading forces. As the tree becomes larger, increased stress is put on the roots to maintain stability.

Roots that are restricted, diseased or damaged can cause trees to lean and fall. Careful examination of the root plate is needed to determine if anchorage is compromised. Look for heaving soil and roots around the tree trunk, which can present a high-risk situation. The presence of pulled or broken roots, as well as any mushroom development around the root system, also can be indicators of defects in the roots. Depending on the age, size and degree of exposure, mitigation may be possible. Young trees with healthy roots systems can be up righted and staked or guyed with success. However, if more than 30 percent of the roots are exposed, removal may be the better option.

Branch Failure
Tree branches are easy victims of loading forces. Whether it is axial loading from snow or ice accretion or lateral, side loading from wind, damage is frequent. Because branches can sometimes be poorly attached to the main stems, they can easily experience injury. However, this structural arrangement allows the branches to be flexible and disposable, and easily shed in times of stress to help dampen the impact of wind, minimizing damage to the larger, structural branches.

Poor architecture and development, such as codominant stems and included bark in branch junctions, predisposes branches to failure and often are the first to experience damage. Branch failure can be easily repaired and not lethal to the tree unless more than half the crown has been destroyed. However, they can create high-risk situations in the wrong places. Learn to recognize dead, broken, hanging limbs or other signs of damage to reduce risk. Often twisted and cracked branches are difficult to see and may need closer inspection by an arborist to identify. Be sure to use pruning best practices when correcting damage in the crown.

There are other forms of damage, such as lightning damage, which can be detrimental and even lethal to trees. A certified arborist or qualified consulting arborist can help provide a prognosis.

Storm Damage Prevention
It is impossible to protect a tree from storms or prevent damage from weather events. However, there are some actions that can minimize injury to trees.

The best preparation begins when trees are young or newly planted. Do not stake or guy trees unless absolutely necessary. This prevents development of internal adjustments to wind with response wood growth. Let the tree adjust to local conditions by allowing natural movement.

Functional pruning helps trees form a healthy, more wind-resistant crown. Inspection and corrective pruning of newly planted trees produces a stronger structure. Eliminate codominant stems by pruning these weak- forked branches. Choose a good, strong central leader for young trees. This will prevent losing the whole crown in the future. Choose branches with even spacing, radially around the tree for balance and symmetry.

Inspect trees for broken, dying, diseased and dead branches each year. Also, conduct a visual assessment after a storm event. Look for crossing branches, which lead to problems where rubbing produces damage and decay. Always favor branches with a “U” shape or greater than 45° angle, which forms an optimal connection. These branches will have fewer tendencies to split or break from wind or ice loads. Eliminate branches with bark inclusion and tight or narrow branch junctions.

Branch training is essential for sustainable, long-term tree plantings.

Under no circumstances should a tree be “topped” to prevent wind or ice damage. Topped trees produce many small, poorly attached sprouts and as they grow, the canopy weight and density is actually increased. In addition, topped branches often develop decay and diseased stems, which further weakens the tree and makes the branches more susceptible to breakage. Topping may seem to make a tree safer, but it actually increases the potential for storm damage with unhealthy epicormic sprouting and additional decay in the stems.

When mature trees develop unequal crowns, prune to improve symmetry. However, remember pruning best practices and never remove more than 30 percent of the crown at one time. It may take several years for crown restoration. Good pruning techniques also promote faster healing of the cuts.

Do not try to “wind-proof” the tree by thinning out branches. Trees rely on proper branching habits and placement to dampen the wind energy affecting them. Excessive and unnecessary pruning creates wounds and additional stress on tree health. Allow the tree to develop fully and naturally by pruning only when needed. However, proper health care includes pruning for vigor. This includes removing dead, dying or diseased branches, poor branch attachments, crossing branches and narrow branch angles. After this functional pruning, some thinning is achieved to reduce drag or sail in the canopy.

A healthy tree is the best defense to any challenge the tree may face in its lifetime. Appropriate watering and fertilization improves root growth and structure, making the tree more stable. Monitor for pest problems and treat when needed to prevent insects and diseases from weakening tree health. Remove diseased branches, as needed, to minimize spread and potential damage.

Risk Assessment
Following a severe storm event, not all trees will need to be pruned or removed, and many will need little or no treatment. After identifying the type of damage, risk assessment is the priority. One of the more critical tasks for the property owner is determining an acceptable level of risk. It is the responsibility of a tree owner or manager to maintain and manage their trees to protect the safety of others. This usually requires assistance from a well-qualified arborist.

Post-Storm Response

• Safety first! Stay clear and look for dangerous hanging limbs, broken branches and other failures before beginning cleanup or inspections. Keep others clear of the areas beneath and around damaged trees. Be alert for power lines that could be involved with damaged trees. All utility lines should be considered energized and dangerous.
• 

  Functional pruning creates a healthier tree that is less prone to
  damage from ice and wind.

  Damage assessment is the next step. Review the affected tree or trees to determine the level of injury. Some trees may not require any action and can recover on their own. The challenging part of the assessment is deciding which trees can be pruned properly to a healthy state and which trees should be removed. Many factors are involved in the decision, and damage may be hidden or difficult to determine. It is critical to get a professional arborist with credentials to conduct the assessment and the work required to mitigate the injured parts of the tree.

• Match skills with the situation when it comes to reparation of damages and restoration. Be able to recognize when tree damage requires advanced training and is best handled by the arborist. Tree work is dangerous and the hazards are compounded when storm damage is involved. Leaning trees, broken and pinned branches, as well as utility lines, can create life-threatening situations.
• Basic cleanup can be helpful in the post-storm response process. Removing downed branches and limbs, and performing basic pruning on smaller, injured trees, can help speed recovery from the event. This also provides for a better evaluation of the site and the larger affected trees.

Hire a Certified Arborist
One key to dealing with the challenges of storm damage is to consult a qualified tree service. Finding a qualified tree care professional is important protection for the property owner. Sometimes less credible companies follow storms to take advantage of a bad situation. Knowing how to hire a reputable arborist can protect a property owner from being victimized. A professionally trained arborist can determine if a tree can be saved. Even if the tree must be removed, safety and training are needed to prevent additional damage or injury from the removal. An International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist can help save a tree or improve the risk situations that follow storms. Also, choosing an accredited company brings the highest level of standards for client satisfaction and safety.

A list of qualified arborists can be obtained by contacting the following sources:

• International Society of Arboriculture website.
  https://www.isa-arbor.com/
• Tree Care Industry Association website.
  https://www.tcia.org/

For more information contact: Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources Office, fnrextension@purdue.edu, 765-494- 3590.

Resources:
Find an Arborist video, Trees are Good-International Society of Arboriculture (ISA)
Caring for storm-damaged trees/How to Acidify Soil in the Yard – In the Grow, Purdue Extension
Tree Risk Management – Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – FNR
Why Is My Tree Dying? – Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources (FNR)
Mechanical Damage to Trees: Mowing and Maintenance Equipment – Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – FNR
Spring Storms Are Coming: How to Reduce Tree Damage and Risk – Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – FNR
Trees and Electric Lines – The Education Store
Planting Your Tree Part 1: Choosing Your Tree, video, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Tree Installation: Process and Practices, The Education Store
Tree Wound and Healing, Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – FNR
Subscribe – Purdue Extension-FNR YouTube Channel

Lindsey Purcell, Executive Director
Indiana Arborist Association

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Purdue Landscape Report: Pollarding is a tree pruning method in which the upper branches of a tree are cut back to the same points on a regular schedule, creating a framework of knobby growth points from which new shoots emerge. The practice has been used for centuries and is especially common in landscapes where trees must be kept at a controlled height or width. Pollarding is not the same as topping, which is generally considered harmful because it removes branches without a long-term management plan. Instead, pollarding is a deliberate, repeated technique that can shape a tree into a compact, manageable form.

One of the main advantages of pollarding is size control. In urban areas, along streets, and near buildings or utility lines, trees often need to fit within tight spaces. Pollarding can reduce conflicts with overhead wires, streetlights, sidewalks, and traffic while still allowing a tree to remain in place. It can also reduce shade, which may be useful in courtyards, parking areas, and other sites where too much canopy cover is a problem. Some trees also respond by producing dense, attractive new growth, which can give them a distinctive architectural look.

Pollarding may also extend the usable life of certain trees when it is started early and maintained properly. Because the tree is kept smaller and more compact, it may be less likely to fail under wind or storm stress than a large tree with heavy limbs. In some settings, the regular cutting of new shoots can even provide a source of small-diameter wood or fodder, which helps explain why pollarding developed historically as a practical land-management method.

That said, pollarding has real drawbacks. It must be done correctly and consistently; if a tree is pollarded at the wrong age, on the wrong species, or after long neglect, the result can be stress, decay, weak regrowth, or structural problems. Not all trees tolerate the practice well, and some may decline if pollarded too aggressively. Pollarding also creates a very artificial appearance, which some people dislike. A freshly pollarded tree can look bare or severe for a time, and the repeated cuts require ongoing maintenance.

Pollarding is most strongly associated with Europe, especially Britain, France, the Netherlands, Italy, and parts of Spain, where it has a long history in both rural and urban landscapes. Today, it is still widely seen in European cities and towns, particularly on street trees and in managed public spaces. It also appears in some parts of North America, but it remains much more culturally visible and historically rooted in Europe. In many places, it is valued both for its practical function and for the distinctive form it creates over time.

Used thoughtfully, pollarding is a useful tool rather than a universal solution. It works best when matched to the right species, the right site, and a long-term maintenance plan. For the right tree in the right place, it can be both functional and visually striking.

Resources:
Tree Pruning Essentials Video, Purdue Extension YouTube Channel
Surface Root Syndrome, The Education Store, Purdue Education’s resource center
Find an Arborist video, Trees are Good-International Society of Arboriculture (ISA)
Report INvasive, Purdue Extension
Indiana Invasive Species Council
ID That Tree, Playlist, Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources (FNR) YouTube Channel (Invasive White Mulberry, Siberian Elm, Tree of Heaven)
Planting Your Tree Part 1: Choosing Your Tree, Purdue Extension YouTube Channel
Tree Planting Part 2: Planting a Tree, Purdue Extension YouTube Channel
Tree Selection for the “Un-natural” Environment, The Education Store
Tree Installation: Process and Practices, The Education Store
Tree Defect Identification, The Education Store
Why Is My Tree Dying?, Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – FNR
Tree Wound and Healing, Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – FNR
Fifty Common Trees of Indiana
Native Trees of the Midwest, Purdue University Press
Subscribe – Purdue Extension-FNR YouTube Channel

Ben McAllister, Urban Forestry Specialist
Forestry & Natural Resources

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