Do you need tree removal services? If your tree looks a little worse for wear, it may be time to clear it out. Dead trees pose a considerable risk, as they can fall without warning. You don’t want to wait until there’s a hole in your roof to realize something is wrong with your tree.
However, if you’re not familiar with the signs, you may not recognize when your tree is dying. If you suspect something is wrong with your tree, here are five things to check.
1. It’s Losing Bark
A tree’s bark is like its skin, so something is very wrong when you start seeing bald patches. Of course, there are many reasons for missing bark, some of which are easy enough to remedy. For example, if you’ve had an intense storm recently, that may be the culprit, and your tree can recover with care. Extreme heat or cold can also cause shedding, so lost bark in winter and summer is perfectly normal. However, if the issue is an infection, your tree’s internal systems are compromised.
One way to see how deep the problem goes is by examining the area under the bark. Healthy trees are green underneath, indicating that nutrients are freely flowing. If you see brown or gray, your tree isn’t getting what it needs to survive.
2. You Find Sticks Everywhere
Twigs are bound to fall off every so often, so there’s no cause for alarm if you see a few sticks here and there. Usually, fallen sticks are the result of wildlife or rough weather. However, if you’re constantly cleaning up twigs, something is wrong.
Excessive sticks mean your tree’s branches are brittle. Brittleness is a sure sign of disease, so you’ll need to evaluate your tree to determine how deep the damage goes.
What if the problem is limited to a few branches? You may be able to save the tree by pruning. In fact, pruning dead branches is key to maintaining a healthy tree. However, if you see other problematic signs, your tree may already be dead.
3. You Notice Leaning
Is your tree leaning at a steeper and steeper angle? If so, you need to get rid of it pronto.
Leaning indicates a problem with the roots, which means the tree isn’t secure. If you don’t act quickly, you risk the entire thing uprooting and causing massive damage.
Can it be saved? In most instances, no. Damage severe enough to undermine a tree’s structural integrity is definitely enough to kill it.
What if your tree has been leaning for as long as you can remember? If you can verify other signs of health, such as plentiful leaves and green under the bark, it’s probably okay. Some trees grow at an angle, and as long as their roots are strong, they shouldn’t pose a danger.
4. It’s Lost Its Leaves
Everyone knows that trees lose their leaves as the weather cools, but if it’s well into spring and your tree is still bare, it’s probably a goner. Trees need nutrients to create leaves and buds, so a lack thereof indicates something wrong with the roots or internal structure.
5. Its Roots Are Damaged
Unfortunately, root damage is usually a death sentence for trees. Several things can harm roots:
- Fungi
- Water-logged soil
- Nearby construction
- Careless landscaping
Since roots are primarily underground, it’s difficult to tell if your tree has suffered damage. In most cases, it’s too late by the time you identify the problem.
Are you searching for “tree removal near me?” You don’t have to look far because Martin’s Tree Service is eager to help. We provide removal and cleanup services, as well as maintenance for healthy trees. To find out more or request a quote, contact us online or call!
Steve Martin
