Lightning strike damage on trees

Categories: Trees and shrubs Uncategorized

On a recent visit to The Botanic Garden at OSU, I spotted a pin oak that has fallen victim to a (relatively) recent lightning strike.  This is a good tree to share lightning strike characteristics for a couple of reasons.  One, this is “classic” damage in that it is instantly recognizable for what it is.  As you can see from the photographs, the bark is stripped away down to the heartwood and in a few spots, even that wood has been structurally compromised.  This damage extends well up into the tree perhaps 15-20 feet.  It is not uncommon to see bark completely gone, but not in a pattern that is clearly defined as this or extending over such a long distance.

I’ve also chosen this tree as an example because it is on public property and easy for you to see for yourself….the pictures simply don’t do the damage justice.   When you visit the garden (see the link above), park in the south lot on Highway 51 and walk the easternmost loop of the trail.  You will encounter several square stones that double as a seating area.  This tree is immediately to the east of the stones, just a few feet from the path.

This tree’s life has undoubtedly been shortened.  It is difficult to say how long it may live, it may not leaf out this year or it may hang on for several more years.  What can be said with certainly is that it will fail and we are powerless to do anything about it.  Attempting to help this tree heal with wound dressings, extra fertilizer, or disease preventing pesticides would be futile.

Since this tree is one of a grove, it may prove to be an interesting case study as to whether or not some of the adjacent trees will also be affected.  Visit the garden soon and take a look at this tree, while it is still there.