From the Tree Experts at Rich Green Lawns
The 2026 blizzard dumped over 18 inches of heavy, wet snow across Monmouth County and Ocean County — and while it looks beautiful, that weight can seriously damage your trees and shrubs.
If you’re in towns like Freehold, Marlboro, Colts Neck, Toms River, Brick Township, or Manahawkin, your landscape likely took a hit.
Here’s what homeowners in Monmouth and Ocean County need to know right now.
Why Heavy Wet Snow Is So Damaging
Unlike light, fluffy snow, wet snow is dense and extremely heavy. When it piles onto branches, especially evergreens and ornamental shrubs, it can cause:
- Split limbs
- Bent or permanently misshaped shrubs
- Broken leaders on young trees
- Uprooted shallow-rooted trees
- Long-term structural damage
In coastal New Jersey communities like Long Branch and Point Pleasant, the combination of wind and heavy snow makes it even worse.
What To Do Immediately After the Storm
1. Gently Remove Snow (The Right Way)
If branches are weighed down:
- Use a broom (not a shovel)
- Brush upward from underneath the branch
- Do not shake aggressively
Shaking frozen branches can cause them to snap — especially on arborvitae, boxwoods, and ornamental pear trees common throughout Monmouth County neighborhoods.
2. Do NOT Attempt Major Pruning Yet
We see this mistake every winter in Ocean County.
If you have cracked or partially broken limbs:
- Do not attempt large cuts yourself
- Do not climb ladders in icy conditions
- Do not use dull tools
Improper winter pruning can create long-term disease issues when spring arrives.
Our team at Rich Green Lawns recommends waiting until temperatures stabilize before corrective pruning.
3. Check for Leaning Trees
Heavy snow combined with saturated soil can loosen root systems.
Walk your property and look for:
- Newly leaning trees
- Exposed roots
- Soil heaving at the base
This is especially common in newer developments throughout Marlboro, Freehold, and Brick Township where trees are younger and root systems are still establishing.
If a tree is leaning more than 15 degrees, it should be evaluated.
4. Inspect Shrubs for Permanent BendinG
Evergreens like arborvitae and holly are common throughout Monmouth and Ocean County landscapes. After snow melt:
- Check if branches bounce back
- If tied, remove any emergency wraps once temperatures warm
- Consider structural corrective pruning in early spring
When To Call a Professional Tree Expert in Monmouth or Ocean County
You should schedule a professional evaluation if you notice:
- Split trunks
- Large, cracked limbs
- Hanging branches
- Trees near homes, driveways, or power lines
- Multiple shrubs permanently splayed open
Our local team understands the soil conditions, coastal exposure, and tree species specific to Monmouth and Ocean County, NJ.
Preventing Future Snow Damage
While we can’t stop blizzards, we can reduce damage next time:
- Structural pruning in fall
- Proper tree fertilization to strengthen root systems
- Cabling or bracing vulnerable trees
- Shrub tying (done correctly before major storms)
Healthy trees handle snow load far better than stressed or nutrient-deficient ones.
Local Tree & Shrub Care in Monmouth & Ocean County, NJ
If your landscape was impacted by the 2026 blizzard, now is the time to schedule an evaluation before spring growth begins.
At Rich Green Lawns, we provide:
- Tree health inspections
- Deep root fertilization
- Seasonal plant health care programs
Serving homeowners throughout Monmouth County and Ocean County, New Jersey.
Don’t Wait Until Spring Growth Reveals Hidden Damage
Snow damage that goes untreated can lead to:
- Disease entry points
- Weak branch structure
- Poor spring leaf-out
- Long-term decline
If you’re in Freehold, Marlboro, Colts Neck, Toms River, Brick, Manahawkin, or surrounding communities — our tree experts are ready to help your landscape recover.
Because when the snow melts… your trees and shrubs should be ready to thrive. 🌳
