Is It Time To Have My Tree Removed?

When it comes to the trees on your property, they are valuable assets in terms of their aesthetic value and significant contributions to the health and well-being of the surrounding ecosystem. However, if your tree has developed problems like disease or structural defects, you should consider having it removed. 

Experts advise removing hazardous trees to protect you, your loved ones, and your neighbours. However, there are times when cutting down a tree is essential. In this guide, we'll examine the warning signals that suggest it may be time to remove a tree and the factors contributing to this decision.

Indicators That It's Time To Remove A Tree

Some of the following indicators may help you decide if a tree has to be removed. Naturally, experts recommend always consulting a trained arborist or professional tree firm before deciding whether or not to remove a tree. Only trained professionals should evaluate your tree to decide if it poses a danger and has to be removed.

The Tree Is Leaning

When a tree begins to lean, it's usually a warning that it's about to fall. Find a place in your yard from where you can get a good look at the tree to determine if it is leaning. Your tree may be dying if you notice a sudden lean, if the ground around it has shifted, or if the tree's roots have been injured so they can no longer sustain its weight.

Here are some warning signs that your tree might fall over:

• Suppose you sink several inches into the earth when you walk on super-saturated soil (often after a lot of rain). In that case, the soil is likely unable to support and stabilise trees adequately. After a heavy downpour, many trees topple over while others begin to bend, putting them in danger of being uprooted.
• When the soil around a tree begins to crack or heave on one side, it's a sign that the rootball is moving and threatening the tree's stability.
• Roots that are visible but which you may not recall seeing before - The roots are beginning to lift out of the ground if they become visible due to erosion (such as after a flood) or ground subsidence.
• The likelihood of a tree falling increases with the number of its stems and the length and weight of its branches.

Without a professional assessment, you can't tell if a leaning tree poses a risk to people or property. Having your tree checked out as soon as possible is recommended. Remember that a leaning tree poses a risk to nearby structures, vehicles, utility lines, and pedestrians because it could collapse onto any of them.

Proximity

The inability of certain trees to navigate regular development patterns on the earth can cause them to develop unnaturally. The protrusion and tilting of roots above ground are telltale signs of aberrant tree growth. Trees that lean may be showing signs of root damage or deterioration. This isn't in danger from technology per se, but it does have a higher propensity to be affected by things like the weather, humans, and animals.

When trees are situated too close to a dwelling, they may necessitate alternative removal strategies. The expansion of the tree roots may weaken the building's framework and internal mechanisms. As they expand, the roots threaten water pipes and increase the likelihood of decay. Tree experts in tree care recommend frequent pruning and trimming if you are concerned about branches falling on your property. 

Fungus

Fungus on your trees will appear as mushroom-like spores and soft bark, particularly towards the tree's base or the roots; this is where the fungus is most likely to be found. If the fungus affecting your tree is not identified and treated promptly, the consequences for the tree's health could be serious. Fungi are typically able to infest a tree after it has been injured, which weakens its protective bark. After that, the fungus is responsible for the tree's decomposition.

It's Stopped Growing Leaves

If a backyard tree that once produced large, lush leaves has suddenly stopped doing so, it may be time to break out the chainsaw and remove it. These trees will likely need help to recover from their inability to produce leaves, whether the cause was damage from insects or lightning, an unfavourable environment that is no longer suitable for growth, or simply old age. It could be better to remove them professionally rather than wait for them to fall off independently.

Disease 

When a tree is sick, its growth and leaves suffer. Infected plants and soil can spread if diseased trees aren't removed. The leaves and branches of a tree are the primary symptoms of a diseased tree. Abnormalities such as leaf drop in spring and the development of brittle, black leaves during the growing season may indicate that your tree is sick or dying. You should check your tree's limbs for several different diseases. However, when the tree's branches become brittle and/or grey, it may be a sign that the tree is dying. 

Inspecting your tree thoroughly means paying close attention to its trunk and roots. Large areas of flaking bark on the trunk, possibly caused by fungus or disease, are warning indications of a dying tree. The presence of rotting, decay, and root rot inside the trunk may be indicated by its damage or hollowness. The presence of moss and fungi at a tree's base is usually a sign of good health, but it can also indicate root injury. The presence of mushrooms near a tree's trunk may indicate decay from the inside. 

Performing a scratch test on your tree is usually an easy way to tell if it is dying or declining. If you scratch a small limb and see green, the tree gets enough water and nutrients to thrive. If it's not green, it could signify that the part of the tree you checked is dead, which doesn't necessarily mean the whole tree is dead, but it does mean you should be concerned. If the tree's bark flaked off during the test, it might indicate that its veins had dried out or something else was wrong with it.

Decaying Roots

Are your tree's roots showing indications of decay? Decaying or rotting roots indicate damage to the tree's structural stability.

Damage to a tree's roots from things like lawnmowers, animals, or buildings might inhibit its ability to absorb water and nutrients. Roots can be injured, or the ground beneath a tree can be disturbed during construction or landscaping, harming the tree.

Extensive drought is also harmful to roots. Some parts of roots might perish from a lack of water. In extreme cases, a tree that has suffered damage to its roots will not recover and will die.

It Is Stunting The Growth Of Other Plants

Dense tree canopies provide excellent shade, but it can be difficult for densely wooded areas to support the growth of undergrowth, such as saplings, grass, and ferns. This phenomenon is referred to as overpopulation, and one strategy for conservation that may be considered is the removal of those trees.

Some people are okay with it if the forest floors on their land are bare, but others prefer to provide a more favourable environment for the species that live in the underbrush and rely on it. To accomplish this, it may be necessary to bring down specific trees that are, on the whole, in good health.

Tree Branches May Fall

Take note of any sagging or broken branches on your tree. The removal of unnecessary branches and foliage can be accomplished through pruning. On the other hand, there are instances when so many branches need to be pruned back that, in the end, you might not be left with much of a tree. It's possible that you'll need tree removal services. It is strongly recommended that you get in touch with a tree service if the actual tree is in danger of falling. Do not put your health, your loved ones' health, your home's fence, or the health of your neighbours at risk.

External Damage 

If the tree trunk is severely damaged during construction, it may be cut down. If the tree's trunk and/or roots have been severely compromised, it is best to have it cut down. Compaction of the soil around a tree during major building operations, such as creating a foundation, can suffocate the roots and hasten the tree's decline. 

When the bark of a tree is damaged, the protective barrier it provides against disease and insect infestation is compromised. Ropes and nails used to secure items to trees are hazardous to the trees themselves because they deteriorate the protective bark. Damage to the tree's exterior usually means it must be removed and replaced.

Storm Damage

If a severe storm hit your area lately, it's possible that many of your trees were damaged. Trees can be harmed by strong winds, high snow or ice loads, and even lightning.

While downed trees and broken limbs are the most obvious evidence of storm damage, healthy trees should be avoided after a storm. Large branches may have broken off but not yet fallen; if they land on a person, home, or automobile, they could inflict serious harm or considerable damage. 

Storm damage to a tree can manifest as trunk or branch cracks. The instability of the tree raises serious safety concerns. As a result, it's highly recommended that you have a professional examine any storm-damaged trees on your property.

Odd Shape

Has your tree developed an unusual structure? Storm damage or bad pruning are two common culprits in this case. Using "heading cuts" or tree topping is an example of inappropriate pruning that might change the shape of your tree. A tree topped might put out several little, unhealthy sprouts from the broken-off branches. Trees that have been topped are under great stress and may miss this extreme pruning technique.

Tree Is Too Big For Its Location

A tree's roots and branches can outgrow their surrounding soil and water over time. What was once a manageable tree has grown into something much larger and more hazardous. Branches should not touch your home's windows, walls, or roof. Roots that have grown too large may also cause damage to underground pipes and the structural integrity of your home's foundation. Roots that have gotten out of hand are another problem for patios.

The tree's roots will continue to spread no matter how much you cut it back from the roof and walls of your house. Hiring a professional tree service near me can help you save time, effort, and money in the long run.

Questions To Ask Yourself Before Removing A Tree

1. What Is The Tree's History?

It may take years for the effects of improper pruning to become apparent. Damage to the new growth is a common result of the antiquated practice of "topping" trees. Alterations to the soil level over the root system can also lead to the death of trees over time. Overburdening a tree's root system by three inches or more almost guarantees the tree's demise. Many trees can be rescued if the problem is identified before the onset of stress symptoms.

2. How Healthy Is The Tree? 

It should be removed if the tree is damaged on over half its trunk. A tree that is dying or in the process of dying may continue to live for many more years, but it will always have stunted growth or an odd appearance. Trees that have been harmed by herbicide typically have leaves that have an abnormal shape, but the trees typically recover.

3. Is The Tree Near Any Power Lines?

Power lines necessitate that trees less than 25 feet in height be planted there. If a tree's branches are touching electricity wires, it must be pruned. Wet weather can cause power outages and property damage by causing electricity to arc up to ten feet to the wet tree leaves and ground out. 

Homeowners should never attempt to prune trees or remove branches close to power wires. Someone using a ladder or a pruning tool may be fatally injured or killed if they come into contact with the power wires or are caught in a grounding arc with a lethal electrical charge. It is highly recommended that you seek the services of a specialist for work of this kind.

4. What Kind Of Environment Does The Tree Live?

A tree's surroundings are also important in determining whether or not it should be removed. Shallow root systems are common for trees that grow on rocky outcrops or wet environments. Tree removal is a regular issue following construction projects. Trees are severely affected by the abrupt transition from shade to sunlight. After being raised under the shade of a forest, they can't handle the rapid shift in elevation or the intense sunlight.

5. Are There Any Large Dead Branches?

Large, damaged limbs and fallen treetops can cause serious damage to buildings and people. A tree has a high chance of survival if less than a quarter of its branches are severed. It's important to prune away any entangled or rubbing branches. The main trunk and any branches with extremely narrow angles are more likely to split, requiring attention. The best time to do this is when the tree is still young. If a narrow crotch proves too large to remove, two co-dominant leads could be cabled together to distribute the load. A professional arborist is needed for this.

Conclusion

Trees are valuable assets for their aesthetic value and contribution to the ecosystem. However, if a tree has developed problems like disease or structural defects, it may be time to remove it. To determine if a tree needs to be removed, consider the following indicators:

1. The tree is leaning: If a tree leans, it may be dying or if the ground around it has shifted.
2. Super-saturated soil: If you walk on super-saturated soil, it may be unable to support and stabilize trees adequately.
3. Soil cracking or heaving: If the soil around a tree begins to crack or heave on one side, it's a sign that the rootball is moving and threatening the tree's stability.
4. Visible roots lifting out of the ground due to erosion or ground subsidence: The likelihood of a tree falling increases with the number of stems and the length and weight of its branches.
5. Proximity: If a tree is situated too close to a dwelling, it may need alternative removal strategies. Frequent pruning and trimming are recommended to prevent branches from falling on your property.
6. Fungus: If a tree suddenly stops growing leaves, it may be time to remove it professionally rather than waiting for it to fall off independently.

Diseased trees can cause significant damage to their growth and leaves, leading to the spread of infected plants and soil. Symptoms include leaf drop, brittle, black leaves, and rotting, decaying roots. Inspecting the tree thoroughly is crucial, as flaking bark on the trunk, rotting roots, and moss and fungi can indicate decay. A scratch test can help determine if the tree is dying or declining.

Decaying roots indicate damage to the tree's structural stability, which can be caused by lawnmowers, animals, or buildings. Excessive drought can also harm roots, and in extreme cases, a tree that has suffered root damage will not recover and die.

Dense tree canopies can be difficult to support undergrowth, leading to overpopulation. To conserve undergrowth, some people may need to remove certain trees. Sagging or broken branches can be removed through pruning, but excessive pruning may result in a tree falling. External damage to a tree can lead to its death, as soil compaction during construction can suffocate roots and hasten its decline. Damaged bark can compromise the protective barrier against disease and insect infestation, and the tree's exterior usually requires removal and replacement.

Storm damage to trees can result from strong winds, high snow or ice loads, and lightning. Healthy trees should be avoided after a storm, as large branches may have broken off but not yet fallen. Storm damage can manifest as trunk or branch cracks, raising safety concerns. Odd shape can be caused by storm damage or bad pruning, such as "heading cuts" or tree topping. Trees that have grown too large for their location may cause damage to underground pipes and the structural integrity of the home's foundation. Hiring a professional tree service can help save time, effort, and money in the long run.

Questions to ask before removing a tree include the tree's history, its health, its proximity to power lines, and the type of environment it lives in. Shallow root systems are common for trees growing on rocky outcrops or wet environments, and tree removal is a regular issue following construction projects. Large dead branches can cause serious damage to buildings and people, and pruning away entangled or rubbing branches is essential. The best time to remove a tree is when it is still young, and if a narrow crotch is too large to remove, two co-dominant leads can be cabled together to distribute the load.

Content Summary

• Trees on your property offer aesthetic value and benefit the ecosystem.
• Consider removing trees with diseases or structural defects.
• Experts advise the removal of hazardous trees to protect everyone.
• Always consult a trained arborist before deciding on tree removal.
• A leaning tree may indicate that it's about to fall.
• Super-saturated soil can destabilise trees.
• Cracking soil near a tree signals root movement and instability.
• Erosion-exposed tree roots suggest potential uprooting.
• A tree's potential to fall is influenced by its stems and branches.
• Professional assessment is essential for leaning trees.
• Leaning trees can threaten nearby structures and utility lines.
• Aberrant tree growth can indicate root damage.
• Trees close to dwellings may require alternative removal methods.
• Expanding tree roots can threaten building structures.
• Pruning and trimming are recommended for concern over falling branches.
• Fungus on trees can lead to severe health issues.
• Trees can become vulnerable to fungus after injury.
• Trees not growing leaves could indicate damage or an unsuitable environment.
• Diseased trees can spread infection to plants and soil.
• Brittle, grey branches might signal a dying tree.
• Flaking bark and damage to the trunk can indicate a tree's decline.
• Moss and fungi at a tree's base can suggest root injury or health.
• A scratch test can help determine a tree's health.
• Decaying roots compromise a tree's structural stability.
• Damage to tree roots can affect their nutrient absorption.
• Trees might stunt the growth of other plants due to dense canopies.
• Conservation efforts might involve removing healthy trees.
• Falling branches pose risks to properties and people.
• Excessive branch removal can leave little of the original tree.
• External damage, like during construction, can necessitate tree removal.
• Bark damage exposes trees to disease and insect threats.
• Storms can cause significant damage to trees.
• Trees should be assessed post-storm for potential hazards.
• Oddly shaped trees might be due to storm damage or poor pruning.
• "Topping" trees can stress them and alter their shape.
• Trees outgrowing their location can threaten properties.
• Large tree roots might damage house foundations or patios.
• Consider a tree's history before removal.
• Improper pruning effects might appear years later.
• A tree with significant trunk damage should likely be removed.
• Trees near power lines require special care and attention.
• Homeowners shouldn't prune trees near electrical lines.
• A tree's environment impacts its health and removal decision.
• Rocky or wet environments can give trees shallow root systems.
• Trees struggle with sudden shifts from shade to sunlight.
• Large dead branches on a tree are hazardous.
• Trees can often survive if less than a quarter of branches are damaged.
• Pruning should address entangled or rubbing branches.
• Branches with narrow angles are prone to splitting.
• Young trees are the best candidates for preventative pruning.