Having a tree removed can be hard decision to make. Not only is it an expense to consider, but it is easy to become attached to the tree and fear that once the tree is removed you will miss its shade and presence. Sadly, there some cases when you may have no choice but to bite the bullet and remove a tree either for immediate safety or avoiding future problems.
Lean
The first and most obvious sign that a tree should be removed is when it begins to lean in a direction more than it had before. Once a tree starts to unnaturally lean, it could be toppled by the next big storm or windy day. This of course poses a danger for anything or anyone caught underneath when it decides to fall, which may or may not be in a storm situation. Interior rot or damage, something hard to identify without a trained eye, could cause it to fall earlier than you may think. If you are unsure about the severity of your tree’s lean, be sure to call professional arborists right away.
Diseases and Rot
A tree is a living thing, and like all living things, it too can grow old, become diseased, and eventually die. A dead tree is much more prone to falling and causing damage, especially if it is suffering from rot or disease that reduces its strength, leading to an unpredictable fall and potentially disastrous. A dead tree also attracts additional insects and pests in addition to the fall risk, so having it removed ASAP is important for preventing any further bug problems, damage from falling branches, or the spread of disease to other healthy trees. Be aware of:
Fungus
Fungus growing on trees or the roots can be a sure sign of interior rot. Fungi also compromise the structural strength of the affected areas, making them brittle and more prone to breaking in winds or on their own. Once a tree is plagued by fungus, it is nearly impossible to eliminate completely. Remember, fungus on trees will not only appear as mushroom-like growths on the trunk or branches. Leaves and branches can be affected in ways that are subtle visually. An arborist can assist you in identifying problem areas if you suspect your tree is affected by fungus.
Trunk Damage
When a trunk is damaged to the point where the tree is at serious risks of dying, large vertical cracks may appear as well as cankers. Large wounds created by animals, birds, and humans can promote the growth of decay and rot. Keeping a close and trained eye on tree wounds as they appear can help save the tree through appropriate action. Consult an arborist to evaluate its health to see if it can be preserved.
Damaged Roots
Roots are of course a vital organ of the tree. Excavation, mower damage, poor soil quality, and exposure to extreme elements can all cause damage to the roots. This reduces their ability to supply the tree with the nutrients and water it needs, in addition to compromising its structural integrity, promoting leaning.
Branches With No Leaves
If areas of the tree are uncharacteristically bare, the branches are unfortunately dead and at a risk for breaking off and falling. If there are no leaves on the crown (top of the tree), it is more than likely on its deathbed sadly.
If your tree is suffering from any of these it could very well be at risk of dying and require the services of a professional arborist or simple need to be felled and removed, protecting your property and family from damage and injury from falling branches. Contact us today to have your tree’s health evaluated or for expert tree removal services.