Knowing when a tree is due for removal isn’t as easy as looking for dead branches. Healthy trees also shed limbs, and minor tree fungus can often lead to certain areas suffering more than others. It is vital to know all the proper warning signs before a troublesome tree ends up falling over or you decide to try to remove a tree that should rather be left standing. The wrong timing of a poorly placed fall could end up costing you thousands or, even worse, injuring someone. Read on to learn how to tell when a tree is going to fall over and arrange arborist services before it’s too late.
A Growing Number Of Dead Or Dying Branches
When a significant number of a tree’s branches begins to die, this is often an indication of underlying root rot. Trees growing in wet, waterlogged soil will develop root rot which leaves the tree unable to draw nutrients and feed its limbs. In its early stages, root rot can be stopped, and the tree nurtured back to good health. However, if it has spread beyond a threshold, there’s no point in leaving it standing around at the risk of losing branches and toppling over.
Roots Overgrown With Fungus
Tree fungus most often starts on the roots. Inspect the base of any tree that you suspect to be dangerous, as well as areas of exposed root growth. Exposed roots are another hallmark of poor health to stay aware of. If you find a mushroom growing anywhere near the base of a tree, it’s time to call an arborist. Fungal growth that close is a strong sign that your tree’s health is at a far state of progression and dire risk of causing damage.
Unexplained Deformed Falling Leaves
Stunted leaf growth or deformed leaves showing irregular coloring or excessive curling are often a sign of a dying tree. If the fallen leaves of your trees cannot be explained by nutrient deficiencies, pests, or fungus, and there are a lot more leaves than you’re used to, this could be a sign of a tree that’s in danger of collapse.
Loss Of Leaves Near Trunk
Leaves don’t conventionally start dropping from the trunk itself but rather from malnourished branches suffering from excessive shade and blooming thriving limbs. If your tree is beginning to lose leaves from its trunk directly, this means that the root growth is compromised, and nutrients can’t reach the foliage necessary to replenish damage – in short, a dying tree.
Peeling Bark And Gaping Cracks
A tree that’s suffering from peeling park is typically in an advanced stage of poor health. Gaping cracks in the trunks are almost always a sign of a tree that’s in danger of collapse. Trees will develop cavities that can be treated, but if they’re left for too long, tree removal is the only option. The clear structural integrity failure shows that the roots cannot support growth any longer. Whether a fungus, disease, or infestation, it’s a sure sign of imminent collapse.
Sudden Leaning
A tree that suddenly starts leaning has been ailing for a very long time. Tree leaning is also caused by structural obstacles such as nearby fences and foundations. In most cases, regardless of the cause, the offending tree will need to be removed in order to prevent high costs and property damage. Sudden leaning isn’t a problem that is normally triggered by something that allows the tree to be saved.
Insect Infestation
Insect infestation is normally an indication of a tree that’s destined to die. Resolving the infestation often causes more harm than good. Carpenter ants at the base of a tree forebode doom with almost certain accuracy. If you notice a high concentration of insects growing within the limbs or trunk of a tree, it’s most likely the entire tree and roots need removing.
The Roots Are Raising Up
Inspect the area surrounding the base of your tree. If you notice the roots rising up and the soil cracking, your tree is likely in danger of imminent collapse. Cracking soil near the bottom-most root growth and trunk is an indication that the tree is presently uprooting and about to fall. Tree removal is crucial.
Waterlogged Roots
Trees growing near bodies of water often begin to suffer from too many of their roots becoming waterlogged. Quickly, fungus begins to form, ailing the health of the tree even worse. Waterlogged roots are a key sign for further inspection as they often indicate a tree that’s too far gone and due for removal.
Contact Us Today For Affordable Arborist Services In Victoria
Don’t take the risk and allow a precarious tree in poor health to break or fall and either cause harm or extensive property damage. Rather remove the unsightly offender before it creates widespread costs and becomes a source of worry for you and your family. We encourage you to get in touch today for an inspection and free quotation for any arborist services in Ringwood or anywhere else in South Eastern Melbourne, Victoria today.
