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Originally Posted On: https://www.adamstreeservicetx.com/how-to-recognize-when-you-need-tree-removal-services/

How To Recognize When You Need Tree Removal Services

Overview

A tree that needs removal doesn’t always have obvious indicators, like visible decay or severe leaning. In reality, the signs are often subtler and varied, especially with declining health or hidden damage. In this blog, the arborists at Adam’s Tree Service share how to recognize the need for urgent or planned tree removal.

Highlights

• Signs of a dying tree
• Dangerous tree branches
• Tree diseases
• Is tree maintenance an option?
• When do you need a tree inspection?

Introduction

Intervening early, it’s often possible to prevent a tree from falling with bracing, cabling, and other maintenance, but not every tree can be stabilized before it becomes a safety hazard. Recognizing the signs that one or more of your trees pose a risk and require removal is essential for preventing damage and ensuring the safety of your surroundings.

Common Signs of a Dying or Dead Tree

Some signs that your tree is dying or already dead aren’t, as you might think, limited to visible decay. One common indicator is the presence of brittle, dry branches that break easily. Healthy trees will typically have flexible branches, so an abundance of deadwood is a definite warning sign.

Another sign to watch out for is peeling or cracked bark. While it’s entirely possible that some bark loss is due to natural aging or minor environmental stress, large, exposed areas or bark that doesn’t grow back often indicate deeper issues. These can include disease or internal decay that weaken the tree.

You should also take note of fungal growth at the base of the tree. Mushrooms or other fungi can signal decay within the trunk or roots, indicating the tree is dying. A strong storm can be enough to uproot a tree that’s already weakened internally.

Identifying Dangerous Tree Branches

When evaluating a tree’s health, eyes often focus on the trunk or base, but look up at the canopy; you’ll get a lot more comprehensive information. The tree needs its branches to support photosynthesis and distribute nutrients, but if they’re sparse, underlying health issues are likely.

While addressing problematic branches through pruning or thinning can resolve localized issues, sometimes the entire tree needs to be removed. It’s an unfortunate consequence, but this is often the case with structural instability or pervasive decay.

Here are a few signs your branches are considered problematic, particularly where removal is concerned:

• Multiple dead or dying branches: Extensive deadwood throughout the canopy may signal overall tree decline.
• Large cracked or split limbs: Significant structural damage to major branches can compromise the entire tree’s stability.
• Branches affected by disease: Widespread disease or fungus on branches may indicate that the tree can’t be saved.
• Severe storm damage: When branches are torn away or left dangling, it may point to irreparable harm to the tree.
• Significant leaning due to weight: Large branches pulling the tree to one side can destabilize its root system.

Key Indicators of Tree Disease That Require Action

Trees can be affected by different diseases; some are fast-acting and deadly, others progress slowly. Characteristics are often specific to the type of disease, and, like human diseases, certain conditions and genetic factors make trees more or less susceptible.

Oak wilt, for example, spreads through fungal spores and causes leaves to discolor, wilt, and fall prematurely. Verticillium wilt, on the other hand, disrupts water flow in the tree, leading to yellowing leaves, branch dieback, and sometimes death.

Diseases require immediate action to prevent further damage or spread. Oak wilt can spread to neighboring trees through beetles and root systems, while Verticillium wilt often resides in the soil, so it’s an ongoing risk. When diseases are advanced, removal moves up in priority.

More specifically, removal is necessary if the tree shows extensive dieback, with large sections of the canopy dead. Deep cracks in the trunk, oozing sap, or fungal growth at the base indicate irreversible internal decay. If the disease has progressed to the point where the tree poses a risk, it needs to go.

When Is Tree Maintenance Preferred Over Removal?

Removal is the last rung on the ladder of tree care solutions, reserved for trees that pose significant safety risks or are beyond saving. Tree maintenance options like pruning are often preferred when a tree has a strong foundation but needs corrective work to remove dead or overgrown branches.

Bracing and cabling are other specialized techniques used to provide structural support to weak trunks or heavy limbs. These methods are ideal for preserving mature trees that might otherwise be at risk of breaking but can continue to thrive with the right reinforcements.

Maintenance would be the preferred option when:

• The tree is structurally stable but has minor issues like dead or overgrown branches.
• Diseases or pests are localized and treatable without compromising the tree’s health.
• The tree’s roots and trunk show no signs of significant decay or instability.
• The tree provides environmental, aesthetic, or shade value to the property.
• Weak branches or limbs can be stabilized with bracing or cabling.
• Pruning can effectively remove hazardous or damaged branches.
• The tree isn’t posing an immediate safety threat to structures or people.

When Is a Professional Tree Inspection Necessary Before Removal?

A professional tree inspection is recommended after physical damage, usually from a storm, to assess structural stability. Heavy winds and lightning can crack branches, split trunks, or uproot trees, creating immediate safety hazards. Arborists can evaluate the damage and determine if removal is required.

If you notice signs of decay or illness, you should also schedule an inspection. Internal damage is the primary concern here, as it isn’t readily visible. Professionals can diagnose the issue and recommend a care plan or removal if the disease can’t be reversed.

Here are three other instances when you need an inspection:

• Growth abnormalities: Presence of unusual growth patterns, like swelling, cankers, or excessive suckers.
• Root damage detection: When there are visible disturbances in the soil around the tree, such as heaving or exposed roots.
• Leaning tree evaluation: When a tree begins leaning unexpectedly, which could signal root or structural issues.

Schedule an Assessment With Expert Arborists

Is your tree leaning too far? Would it benefit from cabling and bracing rather than removal? At Adam’s Tree Service, our expert arborists can determine the right solution, whether that involves comprehensive tree health interventions or emergency removal to protect your property.

Call (817) 357-2931 to schedule an assessment!