Is It Time To Have My Tree Removed?

Trees are a natural species that are fundamental components of the ecosystem. However, when trees develop complications, such as disease or structural flaws, it may be time to consider having your tree removed. Professionals suggest removing trees to ensure the safety of you, your family, and your neighbors. 

There are a number of indicators that can help with your decision to remove a tree. 

Indicators That It’s Time to Have A Tree Removed

Disease 

Tree disease causes the tree’s growth and leaves to appear inadequate. Without removing diseased trees, the infection poses a danger to surrounding plants and soil. 

Leaves and branches are key indicators of a diseased tree. Losing leaves during spring, followed by brittle and dark leaves during the growing season are considered abnormal and can be a sign that your tree is dying or close to dying. Examine your tree’s branches for a number of possible diseases. However, if the branches are brittle and/or grey, it can imply that the tree is in decline. 

The trunk and roots are important details to study when examining your tree. A significant amount of peeling bark on the trunk that may have fungus or disease can suggest signs of decline.  A damaged or hollow trunk may be a sign of internal decay, rotting, and possible root rot. Although growing moss and fungi at the base of the tree is normal, it may also present signs of root damage. The appearance of mushrooms at a tree’s base may indicate internal rotting. 

You can typically see if your tree is dying or in decline by performing a simple scratch test. When you scratch at a small branch on the tree and see green, it means the tree is getting the proper amount of nutrients and is healthy. If it is not green, it could mean that the area you tested is dead, meaning that the entirety of the tree itself may not be dead, but there should be concern that the tree may be at stake. Should bark flake off during this test, it could mean the veins dried out and/or there is something wrong with the tree.

If you’re still not sure after performing one of these preliminary tests, consult a certified arborist for a tree health inspection.

Infestation

Insects can infest a tree and increase its likelihood of losing limbs. After all, dead wood attracts wood-boring insects; if you notice insects living inside of your tree, it could suggest that your tree is in decline or dead. The tree becomes very fragile and can become a safety hazard concerning falling branches. 

External Damage 

Construction can cause severe damage to the tree trunk and may authorize its removal. If the damage done to the tree succeeds at least half of the trunk and/ or roots, the area and tree would most likely benefit from removal. During big construction projects, like the production of foundation, the soil surrounding the tree may become compacted, and can suffocate the roots, leading to decline. 

The tree bark acts as a barrier against malady, and when it is weakened, it puts the tree at risk for disease and insect infestation. Using rope and nails to fasten objects on a tree weakens the bark and puts the tree in danger. If your tree has suffered quite a bit of external damage, it may be time to have it removed.

Proximity

Some trees can grow abnormally due to an inability to navigate growth on the land. You can identify abnormal tree growth by the appearance of roots above ground and leaning. Leaning trees can pose as signs of root damage or weakening. Although this isn’t a technical threat, it is more vulnerable to interactions with weather, humans and wildlife.

Having trees in close proximity to your house can pose other means for removal. The tree growth can affect the structure of the foundation and internal systems. The roots can grow to rupture pipes for water and can cause a higher risk for rotting. If you are concerned about the possibility of branches falling on your home, the tree care professionals at Atlas Tree advise regular pruning and trimming. Albeit, having trees in close proximity to your house is not an immediate factor for removal.

If you’re not interested in having your tree removed, consider having your tree pruned instead to reduce risk.

Should I Also Have Stumps Removed?

Stumps can increase safety, aesthetic and pest problems. Stumps are hazardous things that can cause accidental injury to you or your landscaping equipment because grass can grow over and conceal it from view. Not to mention that they are not very pleasing to look at in your yard; once stumps are separated from the tree, they will slowly decompose which, over time, attracts pests and fungi. 

Have Atlas Remove Your Trees and Stumps

Removing trees and stumps is no easy task that can risk your safety and damage to your property. It is much safer to hire qualified and experienced professionals who can give you the best results possible. 

Atlas Tree Care has provided the Bay Area with affordable and quality tree services since 1982. Our arborists are devoted to providing exceptional tree services to ensure the longevity and health of your trees and property. For all your tree service needs or concerns, contact us on our site, or call us for a free consultation.