Danger Signals of a Failing Tree

We live in an area where our trees are majestic, old and beautiful. We love the shade they give, the history they bring, and the value they add to our property. So why would anyone want to remove a tree from their property? So glad you asked……I will be happy to explain.

Trees become a liability for the property owner when the tree is failing in health and with a little wind or nothing at all, it falls and causes damage. Understanding the health of the trees on your property is so important and something we don’t think about until it is too late.

 There are times when a tree shows signs it is failing in health and it is important for you to know what these signals are so you will know what course of action to take. Knowing when a tree needs to be taken down is vital; you don’t want to remove a healthy tree. The following are just a few of the danger signals to look for;

The tree is sick;

• Weak branches
• • rotting trunk or branches
  • rotten roots
  • discolored and deformed leaves with no veins
• The roots are broken and/or rotted and the tree is leaning over
• There is branch damage, leaving a severely lopsided crown
• The tree trunk is split, has deep cracks or has a hole in it
• The trunk has a streak of missing bark or bark is falling off
• The tree has fungus growing at the base of the tree

An arborist will be able to help you understand at what point the failing tree must come down. Having your trees inspected by an arborist every three years is a good rule of thumb. If you live in an area of extreme weather cycles – especially in long periods of excessive rainfall or drought, it is a good idea to have your trees inspected more frequently. No property owner wants to be caught in a situation where a downed tree has caused more damage than it should have, not to mention the costs associated with it. If you have a hard time letting go of the dangerous tree then turn the negative into a positive and plant a new tree (or more) in its place!