We love trees and always want to do what we can to preserve them. In fact, we think of trees as prized treasures that deserve the utmost care. However, sometimes, a tree is in bad shape and needs to be removed. Anytime that a tree becomes a hazard in some way, it’s simply not worth the risk.
In this article, we’ll talk about some of the signs a tree needs to be removed. Keep in mind that it’s important your tree is evaluated by a professional who can provide an expert opinion on removal.
How to Tell if a Tree Needs to be Cut Down
There are various potential reasons to remove a tree. Sometimes the location simply isn’t working anymore. If a tree was planted too close to a sidewalk or structure, it might now be causing problems at full maturity that it didn’t when it was smaller. While pruning can sometimes be a solution, it may be determined that removal is the best option.
But besides location, there are some signs that a tree needs to be cut down which are related to its health. The following are potential signs that your tree may need to be removed.
#1: Dead or Hanging Limbs
If your tree has branches falling off, this could be a potential sign that it is dying. Dying trees generally drop more branches than healthy trees. This occurs as branches begin to rot.
However, sometimes hanging limbs can also be a result of storm damage.
If your tree was struck by lightning or suffered damage due to high winds, it might require some care to restore its health. But in severe cases, tree removal may be the best option.
#2: A Leaning Tree
If you notice that your tree is leaning, it’s important for it to be evaluated for safety. One important question that a Certified Arborist will ask you is how long the tree has been leaning. Sometimes a “lean” is related to how the tree is growing. However, a tree that is suddenly leaning could potentially be starting to fall.
It’s always important to have a leaning tree inspected by a professional who can determine if it’s at risk of falling.
In some cases, tree cabling and bracing can help preserve a tree.
#3: Root Damage
Root damage can potentially lead to a dangerous tree hazard. Sometimes tree roots are unknowingly damaged during construction activity. This can happen years before you start to notice a problem (perhaps before you even lived there).
Because roots are such a vital aspect of the tree’s health, root damage can eventually lead to a tree’s decline and potential removal.
Some signs of root damage include:
- Thinning foliage
- Dead branches
- Limited growth
A professional will be able to diagnose exactly what’s going on and whether your tree can be saved.
#4: Severe Disease or Pest Infestations
Sometimes diseases and pests are reasons to remove a tree…and in other cases, the tree can be saved. It really depends on what disease or pest you’re dealing with and how severe the damage has been.
With disease, fungicides can often be an effective course of action. However, there are some diseases that are incurable and could eventually destroy the health of your tree to a point where removal is your safest option.
The same is true for many tree pests. While some have effective treatment options, if the damage is already severe, you may not be able to save your tree.
The best course of action is always to get in touch with a professional at the first sign of a problem. Often, the earlier a problem is dealt with, the better the outcome.
Choosing Tree Removal Services in Southern NH, ME, and MA
While these are just four examples of reasons to remove a tree, there are many other potential scenarios.
The scary thing is that sometimes tree health problems or damage goes unnoticed by homeowners. Dead limbs can be in trees for years, spreading decay to other limbs during that time, without you knowing. This is why it’s so important to have trees inspected by a professional and regularly pruned for health.
If it is determined that your tree needs to be removed, then you want to make sure that you choose a qualified tree removal service. Tree work can be complicated, laborious, and even dangerous. You want to work with a company that is highly skilled at having trees removed in New Hampshire, Maine, or Massachusetts.
At Seacoast Tree Care, we work with a team of highly skilled Certified Arborists who can not only perform thorough inspections but will also ensure trees come down safely when they do need to be removed.
By choosing to work with a tree care professional that has significant experience, training, and skill (including horticultural expertise), you can feel confident that the best decisions are being made for your trees.
Ready for healthier trees at your Southern NH, ME, or MA home? Request your consultation and have your New England trees evaluated. By making a wise choice, you’ll know your trees are in good hands.
