Dead branches on trees are more than just an eyesore, they can pose serious risks to your property and your family. They may also be harming the health of your tree as a whole.
Most homeowners already know that dead branches are ugly but they don’t always realize just how much of a danger they can be.
In this article, we’ll dive into the importance of removing dead or damaged tree branches. While it’s not always an emergency situation, in some cases (such as hanging or cracked limbs), prompt removal will be critical.
Jump to:
Do Dead Branches Hurt a Tree?
Should You Cut Dead Branches Off Trees?
Can I Repair a Broken Tree Branch?
Choosing Tree Care in Southern NH, Northeastern MA, and Southern ME
Do Dead Branches Hurt a Tree?
Yes, a dead tree branch can be harmful to a tree. Dead branches still require nutrients and energy from the tree in order to remain supported. But this diverts the tree’s resources away from healthy growth and toward a branch that is never going to recover. This can impact the tree’s overall health.
Similarly, dead branches on trees also tend to be entryways to fungi and pests. These problems can then spread to other areas of the tree.
Keep in mind that dead branches on trees are not always identifiable from the ground. This is one of the key benefits of having your tree regularly pruned by a tree care professional. They will be able to identify dead, dying, and diseased wood within the tree and safely remove it.
When you remove unhealthy branches from your tree, you also allow the tree to focus its energy on new and healthy growth, benefitting the tree as a whole.
Should You Cut Dead Branches Off Trees?
Yes, it is strongly advised to remove dead branches from trees since they can harm the tree’s health. On top of that, dead branches are also always a potential fall risk, which can lead to serious damage to your property or anyone on it.
In addition, pruning off deadwood will also help prevent tree damage from storms. It is often these unhealthy limbs that end up falling during high winds, snow or ice pile-up, and other storm conditions.
Can I Repair a Broken Tree Branch?
It is possible to repair a broken tree branch, but it depends on the extent of the damage. Minor splits can sometimes heal themselves but it’s important to talk to a tree care professional. Sometimes supports might be needed as a broken tree branch heals.
However, more often than not, it’s usually better to err on the side of caution and remove any broken limbs.
If you have a hanging limb (particularly after a storm, when this commonly occurs), it’s important to call your tree care company promptly. Avoid the area around that limb in the meantime. If damage is extensive, it’s even possible that tree removal will be your best course of action.
Choosing Tree Care in Southern NH, Northeastern MA, and Southern ME
If you have trees on your property, then you’ll want to make sure you’re working with a tree care professional who can help you ensure they’re getting everything that they need. That includes proper tree pruning services, limb removal, and even tree removal when it is necessary.
When trees are not taken care of, they can actually become a liability. The last thing that you want is for your beloved trees to become a risk or pose problems.
While there are a lot of choices for tree care services, you want to find a company that has your best interest at heart and that you can build a long-term relationship with. Your property requires ongoing care and it’d be great to partner with a company that you truly trust.
At Seacoast Tree Care, we take the work that we do quite seriously. We started our business with the belief that we are here to care for and protect trees whenever we can. However, when they do have to come down, it’s absolutely critical that it’s done right.
We are committed to preserving trees in the New England area by performing vital services like tree pruning and tree removal, the right way.
Ready for safer and healthier trees at your Southern NH, Maine, or Northeastern Massachusetts home? Request your consultation and get a free quote for tree pruning services. We service properties in and around Stratham, NH, Kittery, ME, and Haverhill, MA. By making a wise choice, you’ll know your trees are in good hands.
