If the trees in your yard look dead and no longer flourish, removal is always a last resort. As trees bring comfort and beauty to your landscape, it can be hard to part with them. Like any other living thing, trees can be affected by diseases and inevitably die.
How do you know that your trees need to be removed? As a homeowner, you are responsible for routine inspections of signs of damage or disease. Here are the tell-tale signs that you need to know before making the cut:
Signs of Infection
Be sure to check the tree health of your trees by inspecting the leaves and the base. If there are discolored leaves, cracks, and stunted growth, then your tree might be having trouble.
The appearance of decay-producing fungi and mushrooms also means that your tree isn’t growing well. Reach out to a professional right away and have it checked for diseases before it affects the health of nearby foliage.
Hanging Dead Branches
Caused by a girdling root, dead branches may fall on the roof or vehicle and cause major damage, injury, and pest infestation. You are not required to cut the entire tree if there are only several dead branches.
However, tree removal is needed if 50 percent of the branches are damaged. Remove the weak branch structures immediately to speed up the healing process and enhance the tree’s natural shape. When pruned properly, branches and little twigs can grow back.
Exposed Surface Tree Roots
When the roots are visible on the ground, this means soil erosion or existing root defects that you haven’t noticed. This is extremely dangerous since your tree can get easily uprooted during storms. One of the best ways to address shallow root development is by removing it completely. If you don’t want to completely remove the tree, you may replant the affected surface or use root barriers to slow down the development of surface roots. Homeowners are encouraged to hire a tree removal company for suggestions on the proper tree and root care.
Compromised Trunk
Any form of cracks, splits, and wounds in the trunk indicate tree decay and disease. A compromised and curving trunk is a structural problem that needs to be addressed before the tree begins to lean. Trees that are leaning pose a major threat to properties and human lives. It may start leaning due to heavy rains, strong winds, or wet soil in your landscape. Leaning trees spell danger to those surrounding them, so have them removed by a professional.
Overgrown Trees
Over time, your tiny seedling will grow into a massive tree. However, overgrown trees typically have branches touching your house roof or siding. This puts you and your neighbors at risk for property damage and severe injury.
Regular pruning and trimming can prevent your trees from reaching restricted areas like power lines and nearby structures. A rule of thumb is that your tree must be at least 20 feet away from any property. Large trees with dense canopies also serve as hiding spots for pests. These unwanted guests can invade your home, cause significant havoc, and pose more danger than you think.
Keep Your Home and Your Family Safe From a Dying Tree
While tree death is an unavoidable ecological process, it doesn’t hurt to know the red flags and take proactive measures. If you notice any of the above signs in your trees, contact a professional like Tree Removal Lancaster for tree inspections and removal service. Schedule a consultation to discuss what’s the best course of action for your tree.