Can these Cedars be saved from snow damage?

(Question)

These two ornamental cedars leaned over during a heavy snowfall. Can they be saved? Are they at the end of their lives? Planted in 2004 and grew quickly to about 10m tall.

(Answer)

Thank you for contacting Toronto Master Gardeners.

The recent heavy wet accumulation of snow has many gardeners around the city casting their eyes over their gardens and shaking their heads in dismay.

I suggest you cut some burlap into long 8-10 cm wide strips or get some old pantyhose, and use these materials to gently bind around the tree trunk or branch area below and above where it is bent- neither burlap or pantyhose should cut into or damage the tree bark. Gently pull the Cedars back upright, anchoring and tying the restraints to a very strong safe post or fence. Keep an eye on them, if the tree trunks are not broken or badly cracked, they should straighten out. This process may take some time as you may have to tighten and straighten bit by bit over the coming weeks.

If you are in any doubt about the trees survival or your own capabilities to rescue them, I would suggest you contact a certified arborist, have them come out to the site, take a look and prescribe a path forward. If you don’t currently use a tree care person/company, then I suggest you contact Landscape Ontario for a reliable recommendation.

Below, you will find a link to some good general cedar maintenance for your guidance going forward.

Cedar Tree Maintenance