Hail can damage the fruit, shoots, and limbs of a fruit tree. The level of injury depends on the size and shape of the hail and the duration of the storm.

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Damage:

  • Shredded, torn, and/or blown off leaves

  • Twigs and branches may be tattered, split, or completely broken.

  • Pitting of the fruit; some fruit be completely knocked off of the tree onto the group.

  • In the event of a severe hail storm, some young trees may need to be replaced if there is significant injury.

  • It can take a very long time for a tree to recover, especially if there was previous decay by fungi or insects/pests.

Management & Care:

  • Immediately begin clean-up efforts and evaluate the damage (watch for any new diseases such as fire blight, bacterial canker, etc.)

  • Apply biodynamic tree paste and microbes sprays to severe bark wounds

  • Provide quality after-care of the trees (water, fertilize, mulching, etc.)

  • Consider installing chicken wire or hail netting to protect trees from hail damage

Sources: Michael Phillips, “The Holistic Orchard”, USDA, Missouri Botanical Garden, Michigan State University Extension, and Patrick L. Byers, Horticulture Specialist