Trees are a magnificent and beneficial part of most landscapes, providing shade, privacy, wildlife habitat, and aesthetic appeal. But did you know that the presence of mature, well-maintained trees in a yard can significantly increase a property’s resale value? According to 2021 research, this value increase ranges from 3% to 15%. In the same study, one of the leaders in renewable services stated that planting many of these natural elements can help save on energy consumption.
But as much as we adore them, there comes a time when a tree becomes more of a liability than an asset. Whether it’s due to safety concerns, health issues, or simply outgrowing its space, recognizing when it’s time for tree removal is crucial.
Read on as this article will explore five telltale signs that indicate it might be time to bid farewell to a beloved tree to prevent worst-case scenarios, click here
When Branches are Breaking and Falling Frequently
One of the clearest indicators that a tree may require removal is structural instability. If you notice splitting or large cracks in the trunk, it’s vital to take appropriate action to address it promptly.
Structurally unsound trees can escalate quickly, posing dangers to nearby property, pedestrians, and even vehicles. Sure, losing minor branches may only require pruning and maintenance, but a high frequency of shedding, falling, or changes in the tree’s canopy density indicates the hazards of the tree eventually splitting or toppling entirely.
In such cases, seek an arborist’s expert opinion and be prepared for a recommendation of tree removal to eliminate the issues the tree causes.
When the Trunk or Major Branches Lean Substantially
While trees often develop a bit of lean or asymmetry naturally as they mature, substantial leaning of the main trunk presents a high risk. For instance, trees leaning at sharp angles may have extensive root damage or instability that eventually causes them to topple, especially when growing in shallow soils.
Additionally, the direction trees lean is the most likely path they will fall, putting any structures, vehicles, or people in the lean zone in danger during storms. If remediating the lean via cables and bracing isn’t possible, removal becomes the only safe option before disaster strikes.
When Tree Roots Start Damaging Hardscapes and Foundations
As tree roots grow seeking nutrients and water, they can infiltrate tiny cracks in hardscapes like driveways and patios or compromise building foundations. Initially, you may notice small bumps, cracks, or upward movement in nearby hardscapes and structures. But over time, root intrusion, settlements, and breakages intensify, leading to costly repairs.
In addition, large roots can eventually clog drainage lines. Since excavating and cutting problem roots often damages tree health beyond recovery, tree removal and replacement with narrow or dwarf species suited to the space may be best to prevent recurring damages.
When Disease Symptoms Persist and Worsen
From fungi to bacteria and viruses, trees face numerous infectious diseases that display very visible symptoms when advanced.
For instance, canopy thinning, dead branches, ooze from the bark, abnormal growths, and leaf discolorations or wilting serve as alarming indicators of underlying issues. Depending on the pathogen involved and how far the disease has progressed, treatment options range from none to slim.
With that said a tree professional can accurately diagnose any problem and offer a prognosis before deciding whether treatment or removal is the only sensible path forward. Infertile soils, poor drainage, and environmental stressors often feed common tree diseases too, problems that simply replacing the tree can effectively resolve.
When Infestations Detract Greatly From Tree Health
Like diseases, pest infestations can also severely impact tree health. Visible signs like dying foliage, sawdust accumulation near the base or in branch forks, exit holes in the bark, and larvae within tree cavities are strong clues of infestation.
Insects such as aphids, beetles, and caterpillars can defoliate trees, weaken their structural integrity, and transmit diseases. Additionally, invasive species like the emerald ash borer and the Asian longhorned beetle have wreaked havoc on tree populations in various regions, causing widespread mortality and ecological disruption. In many cases, though, removal stops further pest spread or property damage related to the declining tree.
Wrap Up
Knowing when to remove a standing tree ranks among the hardest landscaping decisions homeowners face. However, allowing severely compromised trees to linger too long inevitably may lead to dangerous and damaging failures.
That said, taking an objective look at the clear signs that a tree causes more harm than good on a property ensures everyone’s ongoing safety and asset protection.
