5 Signs a Tree Needs To Be Removed

When a tree is dead or dying, you will notice obvious signs such as the bark falling off, no leaves or buds appearing in the springtime, and stunted growth. Dead branches may also be present on the dead tree, which can easily break and cause injury or property damage.

While these signs are indistinct, they must be taken seriously as a dead tree poses a great risk to everyone in the area. As much as it may be difficult to face, dead trees as well as dying trees should be removed immediately as they can become unstable and dangerous overtime. To address this, make sure to call trusted tree removal services who can help you assess the tree and get it removed as soon as possible.

2. The tree shows signs of disease or infestation

One of the major indicators of a diseased tree is when it shows signs of internal decay. When a tree starts to decompose, fungi and bacteria break down the tree's tissues, making it more fragile and susceptible to disease. Moreover, the decay can be accelerated by environmental factors such as excessive moisture or physical damage.

If you notice any discolouration on the leaves, wilting, spotting, premature leaf drop, or dead branch stubs, these could be signs of a diseased tree. Diseased trees may not only pose an inherent risk due to their weakened structure but they can also spread infection to other nearby trees. When this happens, other healthy trees may be affected and the entire area could become a breeding ground for fungi and bacteria.

Like diseased trees, infested trees are highly destructive and can cause significant damage to your property over time. Certain pests and insects like borers, beetles, and termites inflict severe structural damage, while others attack the tree’s foliage and sapwood.

To identify if a tree is infested, consider looking out for signs such as holes in the bark, wilting leaves or branches, discoloured patches on the trunk, lifting roots, black sooty mold, and premature leaf drop. In some cases, you may even see sawdust or sap exuding from the tree. As soon as you spot any of these signs, call a certified arborist for a tree risk assessment and so they can determine the appropriate course of action.

3. The tree has structural issues

If a tree has significant structural problems, such as multiple trunks, deep cracks, or a noticeable lean, it may pose a risk of falling. Large branches from large trees that have compromised structural integrity may not only cause damage to buildings and vehicles, but they can also be a safety hazard for pedestrians as well as nearby homeowners.

When assessing trees for structural problems, it's important to look at the strength of its tree limbs and branches as well. Even if the tree trunk appears structurally sound, weakly attached or dead branches can easily break and fall off unexpectedly to the ground, leading to potential property damage and even injury. If you spot any of these indicators, it’s best to contact a certified arborist or a professional tree removal service for a tree risk assessment and have them determine what needs to be done.