Snow Tips

The Snowman Cometh & Tips To Deal With Him

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There's just something about waking up to a winter wonderland. But it also means you need to do more than just building snowmen.

It's the moring after the Super Bowl and I awoke to a beautiful winter wonderland. What a great “After Super Bowl” day to enjoy at home. As I gazed out the window I noticed something wasn't right - this heavy snow had severely damaged the coral bark maple by my pond. Old western movies spring to life and I think, "Like a Horse with a broken leg, I will probably need to put her down.”

In my more than 30 years in business,YES, it was 30 years in March 2017, I have learned a few tricks on how to handle snow.

Heavy Snowfall Tips FROM JIM REYNOLDS

When shoveling and removing snow from your ornamental trees, use a broom or like tool and GENTLY remove any heavy snow. To NOT “whack” the branches; Shake them gently from the bottom. Evergreens, magnolias and Maples are especially susceptible to damage from snow.
When removing snow, be aware of the temperature. Snow is much LIGHTER when it is below 32 degrees. Don’t wait until it warms up!
When studying the forecast, be aware of the longevity of the weather pattern. If it is going to clear off and then go into a DEEP FREEZE, remove snow now and apply snow melting granules to the pavement.

When walking on the fresh snow, remember that once the snow gets compacted on the walkway and it freezes again, it will become chunky ice and be difficult to remove. Shovel the snow early on!
When driving somewhere, give plenty of time
Work from home if this is possible
When anticipating a snow storm, be PROACTIVE and to consider the following:
If your driveway slopes uphill, back your car into the garage, so you don’t have to spin your way out backwards in the morning. Take note of ALTERNATE driving routes in your area
If you have snow melting granules confirm that they are concrete safe. Spread them on the walks and driveways before the storm. Even when it snows, this may keep the surface from freezing beneath the snow. Commercial properties do this to keep parking lots and walkways safe.
Stock up on groceries, water, candles, batteries and other essentials BEFORE the big storm hits.
Check in with your loved ones and neighbors. This can be a good time to connect with others.
Remember ALL WHEEL DRIVE vehicles slide just like two wheel vehicles. Next time you drive in foul weather, count how many 4 x 4’s are in the ditch. It will surprise you.