So when is tree removal the next necessary step? Here are the most obvious (and not so obvious) signs to look out for.
#1: The position and location
While many trees will lean naturally, if you’ve noticed that a tree has newly started leaning in any direction then it could be a sign that it’s dying and may soon fall over. If you’re not sure whether the tree has always leaned, call in a professional tree specialist and they’ll be able to tell if it’s a natural lean or a sign of something more dangerous.
The location of the tree is also important and could be a cause for tree removal, even if it isn’t damaged or dying. If the tree is close enough to your home that the branches are touching your siding, it can lead to mould growth which can damage your exterior walls (and is expensive to fix!).
It’s also a serious problem if branches are growing into power lines – this can be a very dangerous hazard, so have it looked at immediately.
#2: The branches
Dead, weakened or hanging branches could be a sign of something more serious. Tree diseases can develop and weaken the tree, making it more likely to fall or lose branches. So if the branches look like they’re dying off, or are developing fungus or powdery mildews, it could mean your tree is diseased.
If this is the case, it’s vital that the tree is removed as soon as you notice it. Tree diseases are contagious, and if there are flowers underneath the tree or other trees close by, they can be infected by the same disease.
#3: The leaves
Tree diseases are also easily spotted in the leaves of the tree – look for leaves that are discoloured, falling off early, lack veins or that have formed unusual nodules.
If they are losing their rich green colour and turning yellow or lime green, it could be a sign of chlorosis which means they’re not producing enough chlorophyll, usually due to damaged roots not absorbing enough nutrients.
#4: The trunk and bark
Decay and decomposition can cause structural problems in trees, making them more prone to falling down and causing damage.
The trunk of the tree can give you the clearest signs as to whether it’s dying, rotting or diseased. If the trunk is missing large pieces of bark, or you can see cracks or cavities running through the trunk, it could mean that the tree isn’t structurally sturdy anymore.
But not all cavities mean decay. So if you notice them, you should get a professional tree specialist to check – they’ll know if a cavity is too large for the tree to support and whether a tree removal is the best solution.
#5: The roots
The ground and roots around the base of the tree can also indicate health problems and decay. If the roots are quite obviously damaged or decaying, this means that the tree is not structurally supported and could easily fall at any time. If this is the case, contact a specialist tree removal company immediately so that it can be safely removed before it falls and causes serious damage or injury.
You should also check the base of the tree where it meets the ground – if there is a gap between the tree and the ground, it could mean that the tree is leaning and has lost some or all of its structural integrity. Or if there is a large amount of fungus or sawdust at the base of the tree, it could indicate the possibility of extensive rot and decay caused by insects eating away at the trunk and bark.
So now what?
If you’ve noticed a tree in your yard isn’t looking so well, the most important thing is not to leave it too late! Call in a professional to assess the situation as soon as you can. The tree removal experts from B&R Tree Services have a wealth of knowledge and experience behind them, and can remove dangerous trees from your yard safely and quickly to eliminate the possibility of further damage.