10 Signs My Tree Has Become Hazardous
A tree is a symbol of life and prosperity. It is supposed to be providing people the shade, protection from floods, and a source of food for humans, animals, and insects. It plays a very significant role in our planet’s ecology. However, trees can also be a cause of life-threatening events and dangers to property.
Here are the tell-tale signs that your tree is dangerous:
Broken or Damaged Branches
A damaged, broken, or hanging branch is an obvious sign of big trouble, especially if its size is large enough to cause harm to an individual or damage to property. The failure to underestimate the scale of destruction and injury that it could cause may lead to expensive medical costs and property repair fees. Additionally, damaged tree branches also pose a threat to the tree’s overall health too. This is because the decayed portion of the tree can spread to other branches and attract pest or insect infestations. It is always best to remove them before this small and simple problem escalates.
If you notice a hanging or damaged branch, it is always best to get the best advice from a professional arborist. These are professionals who know how to remove it correctly and safely.
Dead Branches
It is very easy to spot dead branches. While your tree is flourishing with healthy leaves and branches during spring or summer, it is not good to see dead branches with withered and brown leaves and branches. Over time, these dead branches can become weak and brittle, causing them to fall during a windy or even a calm day. It could cause harm to pedestrians or property within its way.
Noticing dead branches on the ground is one obvious sign that there’s something wrong with your tree. When there’s a branch dropping down the ground also means that the tree is under stress. So if there’s an unusual amount of fallen branches and leaves, it is telling you that you need to call a tree expert professional. While waiting for your tree to be checked, make sure to avoid standing or walking underneath the tree to avoid the problem.
Poor Structure
Some signs can be difficult to tell if the tree is dangerous, most especially if you don’t have the proper knowledge on how to spot these signs. We know that a healthy tree should have long and thick branches and a massive canopy of leaves. On the other hand, it doesn’t always mean that a healthy tree also means that they are safe. Some tree species may grow close together, causing them to fight for the light and nutrients. This could result for the tree to grow narrow and tall. A good arborist can be there to help you ensure that your tree is healthy.
Leaf Loss
Leaf loss is common during the autumn season, but what if your tree starts to lose leaves during the season that they are not expected to? Drying leaves, thinning of leaves, and losing leaves is an obvious sign that the health of your tree is in peril. Some of the reasons it happens are soil issues, pest infestations, tree diseases, and root zone problems.
Hole in Your Tree’s Trunk
Have you noticed a hole(s) in your tree’s trunk? Failing branches attract moisture and may eventually rot leaving some cavities. This is not good for a tree, even small holes, which could significantly decay within the tree. Unfortunately, many individuals fail to realize the importance of having their tree checked or assessed by an expert arborist.
Cracks or Splits
Cracks and splits in your tree’s trunk can be caused by several factors like rotting, unstable soil, and other damage. Superficial splits or cracks in the bark are typically harmless, but deep cracks in the bark must be assessed by experts to ensure that they are not a treat. In some cases, if the damage is too deep, it may require complete tree removal.
Leaning Trunk
It is normal to see a leaning tree as some may grow naturally with a leaning position. On the other hand, it is dangerous if a straight tree suddenly leans and it keeps on leaning as time goes by, it can be a red flag that something is wrong with the tree. It can be due to root issue, stability or even it has problem internally.
Root Problems
A healthy root means a healthy tree. It plays an important role in the tree’s life and stability. However, because they can’t be seen or inspected, it is quite difficult to determine if this is the cause of the problem. However, there are some signs that will tell you that there’s a problem with the roots. A dark and musty area within the base of the tree with growing mushrooms can be a sign that the roots of the tree are rotting.
Exposed or Weakened Trees
If there’s a construction project in the area and the tree roots have been affected and exposed, it can be the start that the tree’s overall structure is already compromised. One of the best solutions here is to have it checked by experts. They can clear these weakened trees and give way for other trees that can survive.
Ingrown Bark Tissue
This can happen when there are two or more stems that grow close together. It can easily determine when it starts to create a “V” formation that could lead for them to break or split. It can be dangerous if this will not be pruned properly.
Conclusion
The signs that are mentioned above are enough reason to make you realize that you need to act right away before it’s too late. Being equipped with the correct information on how to take care of your tree is very important. If you are unsure, you can always call an expert arborist to help you deal with it properly. When your tree is adequately maintained, it will surely provide your home a good shade, fruits, and healthy air – a perfect blend to enjoy life!
