Trees bring so much benefit and beauty to the landscape, it can be hard to part with them. Tree removal is usually a last resort, when no other management option, like pruning or disease mitigation, is sufficient. Dead, dying or otherwise hazardous trees can lead to thousands of dollars in damage, plus the priceless cost of personal injury. As a tree owner, you are responsible for damage or injury that occurs because a tree that should have been removed was left standing.
Here are some red flags to look for which indicate your tree should be inspected by a professional and possibly be removed.
There are signs of infection
Crown dieback, cracks (deep splits in the tree’s bark), misshapen or discolored leaves, soft crumbly wood, and the appearance of fungi may indicate your tree is infected.
You see large, dead branches in the tree’s crown
If 50 percent or more of the tree is dead or damaged, it should probably be removed for safety reasons.
Your tree isn’t growing well
Take a look at the health and vigor of your tree compared to the trees growing near it. Thin leaf cover, discolored foliage and stunted growth are all signs your tree is having trouble, and needs to be diagnosed by a professional.
There is evidence of root defects
Root defects often are not easily noticeable, but heaving soil and fungi growing near the tree’s base are both signs of root issues.
The trunk is compromised
Cracks or splits, large wounds and dead branch stubs on the tree’s trunk all indicate internal decay. Many people don’t realize trees can actually live for years with internal decay.
The tree is hollow
A tree with a hollow trunk has been seriously compromised and is a hazard. If a third of the tree is rotted or hollow inside, it needs to be removed.
You observe sprouts at the base of the tree
These are known as epicormic shoots and they indicate that the tree is severely stressed and should be evaluated by a professional.
The tree is under power lines
A tree that is growing into power lines can become a hazard and may need to be removed by a certified arborist or tree service.
The tree is too close to a house or other structure
Trees hanging over the roof or too close to a structure might need to be removed – or at least regularly pruned. In general, large trees should be at least 20 feet away from a house or building.