Helping cedars recover from heavy snow

The heavy snowstorm over Thanksgiving in 2019 left many Winnipeg cedars leaning, splayed open, or broken. Columnar cedars were especially noticeable, with upright stems pulled away from their usual shape by the weight of the snow.

A cedar that has opened up isn't automatically beyond saving. The first step is to look for actual damage. Stems that are bent but still sound are a different problem from stems that have split at their attachment or torn away from the plant.

The photos show two cedars that Parkland Tree Care assessed and supported after that storm. In those cases, bringing the stems back into a more suitable position made a substantial difference. The same approach won't suit every damaged cedar, and support needs to be chosen and checked carefully.

Don't force frozen branches back into position or pull on a plant while heavy snow or ice is still attached. Give the snow a chance to release naturally, and keep clear of broken or hanging limbs. Once the load is gone, the remaining damage is easier to assess.

If your cedar is still leaning or has visible splits, have it looked at before deciding to tie it up or remove it. Sometimes careful pruning or support is possible. Sometimes the damage makes replacement the better choice.