Trees are a vital part of our ecosystem, offering not just aesthetic appeal to our yards but also shade and improved air quality. However, there are times when these silent sentinels can become a liability rather than an asset. Read on to discover the five most obvious signs that you need to remove a tree from your yard.
Excessive Leaning
Trees naturally lean toward sunlight, a phenomenon known as phototropism. This slight lean indicates a healthy pursuit of essential light for photosynthesis. However, when a tree exhibits an excessive lean, that could signify a weak and unstable root system.
A tree leaning more than usual signals that the roots can no longer adequately hold it upright. This instability poses potential dangers, such as trees falling over, especially in severe weather conditions. The trees could cause property damage or even pose a risk to personal safety.
Many Dead Branches on the Ground
Dead or dying branches often signify the poor health of a tree. When a large portion of a tree’s branches seem lifeless or brittle, the tree is likely struggling to survive and may not be receiving the necessary nutrients. These dead branches aren’t just a sign of ill health; they also pose hazards. They can fall without warning, potentially leading to injuries or property damage.
Many dead branches around the base of a tree almost always mean there are potentially dangerous “widow-maker” branches still up in the canopy. Therefore, you must get these trees inspected and removed as soon as possible.
Fungi Growth
Fungal growth on a tree’s trunk or branches is often a clear signal of internal decay. Fungi like mushrooms growing at the base of your tree can indicate that the root system is rotting. This rot, often due to fungal infestation, compromises the tree’s structural strength. A structurally weak tree can fall or lose large branches, threatening its surroundings. Plus, many of these fungi are quite harmful to household pets and children, posing another risk to your family.
A Hallow Tree Trunk
A hollow trunk is a clear sign of a dying tree. While trees can continue to live with a hollow trunk for some time, it significantly weakens the overall strength and stability of the tree. Such a tree is more susceptible to breaking or falling over, particularly during strong winds or storms. This weakened stability poses potential risks to nearby properties and people. Additionally, these hollow spaces are the perfect homes for unwelcomed pests that love to destroy our yards and homes and even potentially harm household pets and small children.
Visible Root Damage
Visible damage to a tree’s roots is a serious sign of instability. Root damage can occur due to several factors, such as construction activities, severe landscaping, or diseases. Damage to the roots weakens the tree’s foundation, making it unstable and prone to falling. An unstable tree poses a risk of falling and hampers the tree’s ability to absorb nutrients, further affecting its health and lifespan.
While it’s important to understand the various signs you need to remove a tree from your yard, it’s essential not to remove it yourself. This kind of removal work is actually quite dangerous and requires the experience and touch of a professional. Thankfully, our team at Southern Maine proudly provides effective local tree removal services for your convenience and safety!
