Trees add immense beauty and countless benefits to our surroundings, which is why it’s often difficult to say goodbye to them. However, tree removal becomes necessary when no other management options, such as pruning or treating disease, are enough to ensure safety. Dead, dying or hazardous trees can cause significant property damage, not to mention the potential risk of personal injury. As a tree owner, you are responsible for any damage or injury resulting from a tree that should have been removed.
Here are some key warning signs that your tree may need to be inspected by a professional, and potentially removed:
Signs of Infection
If you notice crown dieback, deep cracks in the bark, misshapen or discolored leaves, soft or crumbly wood or the presence of fungi, your tree could be infected.
Large, Dead Branches in the Crown
If 50% or more of the tree’s branches are dead or damaged, it’s likely time to remove the tree for safety reasons.
Poor Growth
Compare your tree’s health and growth to nearby trees. Thin leaf coverage, discolored foliage and stunted growth are signs that the tree is struggling and needs professional diagnosis.
Root Defects
While root problems are often hard to spot, signs such as heaving soil or fungi near the tree’s base may indicate underlying issues.
Compromised Trunk
Look for cracks, large wounds or dead branch stubs on the trunk, which could suggest internal decay. Surprisingly, trees can live for years with this kind of damage, but they still pose risks.
Hollow Trunk
A hollow tree trunk is a clear red flag. If a third of the tree is rotted or hollow inside, it’s severely compromised and should be removed.
Sprouts at the Base
These growths, known as epicormic shoots, are signs that the tree is under severe stress and requires evaluation by a professional.
Tree Interference with Power Lines
Trees growing into power lines pose a serious hazard and may need to be removed by a certified arborist or tree service.
Too Close to a Structure
Trees that overhang a roof or are planted too close to a building may need to be pruned regularly, or removed entirely. Large trees should typically be at least 20 feet away from structures.
Taking action when these signs appear can prevent costly damage and keep your property safe.