Most trees are quite durable and capable of lasting a long time. However, there may come a point when tree removal is advised to protect your property and ensure your safety. Here are some red flags to watch out for.

Dead Branches

When appreciating the fall foliage, pay attention to any trees with dead branches. Those branches might have yellow or brown leaves if they have any at all. In addition, dead branches often appear to be shriveled or dry with dark, wrinkled bark. If branches snap easily, they are certainly past their prime.

Removing dead branches can give trees a better chance of thriving in the future, especially if only about a quarter of the branches have been compromised. Plus, this eliminates a safety hazard since dead branches can break and fall at any time. If around half of the branches, or more, are dead, it may be time to remove the entire tree. In this case, the tree may not be able to recover.

Leaning

While recognizing that trees don’t grow perfectly straight, it’s important to understand that trees that lean too much can be dangerous. Their roots may not be able to support them, making a fall much more likely. A tree that develops a lean may be weak on one side or may be going through a change in how it’s anchored to the ground. For example, the roots might be damaged in a certain area or the soil might be eroding or becoming less stable.

When a tree leans about 15 degrees or more, ask a professional to take a look and assess the situation. They may recommend tree removal to prevent a serious problem from arising. This recommendation may be more urgent if a tree is leaning in the direction of your home, driveway, or power lines.

Visible Decay or Damage

Sometimes, trees can develop large cavities due to infection, pest infestation, physical damage, or rot. While trees have the potential to reinforce the areas around the damage in an attempt to survive, they might not be able to compensate for major problems. Assessing the health of a tree solely based on its exterior appearance can be challenging for those without expertise. That’s why it’s a good idea to have a trained arborist come and take a look.

If you see any of these warning signs, please reach out for assistance. We can figure out whether tree removal would be the smartest course of action and can handle the entire process for you, keeping you and your property safe. Contact Woodland Tree Service to schedule a tree removal appointment in Plymouth, MN.