Trees add beauty, shade, and value to any property, but they also require proper care to stay healthy and safe. Many people don’t realize they have a tree problem until it’s too late—when branches start falling, roots damage foundations, or disease spreads uncontrollably. If you’re unsure whether it’s time to call in the experts, here are seven undeniable signs that you need professional tree services.
Branches Are Hanging Low
A few stray branches may not seem like a big deal, but if they’re hanging too low or extending over your house, garage, or power lines, they pose a serious risk. During storms or high winds, these branches can break and cause damage, potentially leading to costly repairs. Professionals can provide a tree service Dunwoody GA where they will trim them back safely and strategically to prevent hazards while keeping the tree’s health in check.
Visible Signs of Disease or Decay
Trees, like any living organism, can fall victim to disease. The problem is that tree diseases often go unnoticed until significant damage has occurred. Watch for:
- Discoloured leaves – Unusual yellowing, browning, or black spots can signal disease.
- Cracked or peeling bark – Healthy trees have strong, intact bark. If it’s splitting, flaking, or falling off, it’s a warning sign.
- Fungal growth – Mushrooms at the base of the trunk or on branches can indicate internal decay.
- Dead or brittle branches – If branches snap easily or fail to produce leaves in the right season, the tree may be dying.
Professional tree services can diagnose the issue and recommend treatments to save the tree or remove it safely if necessary.
The Tree is Leaning More Than Before
A slight natural lean isn’t usually a problem, but if a tree suddenly starts tilting to one side, it could mean trouble. This can be a sign of root damage, soil erosion, or structural weakness, putting the tree at risk of falling. If a tree leans significantly or the ground around its base is cracked or lifting, it’s time to get an expert opinion before it becomes a danger.
Roots Are Causing Damage
Tree roots are incredibly powerful and can spread far beyond the base of the tree. Over time, they can push up pathways, crack driveways, interfere with underground pipes, and even threaten a property’s foundation. If you notice uneven pavement, clogged drains, or shifting soil near a tree, don’t ignore it. Professional tree services can assess the situation and provide solutions, whether it’s root pruning, tree relocation, or removal if necessary.
Excessive Shedding of Leaves
Trees naturally shed leaves in autumn, but if yours is losing leaves out of season or dropping large branches frequently, it could be struggling. Stress from pests, drought, or disease can cause excessive shedding, and ignoring it may lead to the tree’s decline. Arborists can determine whether the issue can be fixed through proper care or if the tree poses a long-term risk.
Neglect of Pruning
Regular pruning isn’t just about keeping trees looking tidy—it’s crucial for their health and longevity. Without routine trimming, trees can grow unevenly, develop weak branches, or become overgrown and hazardous. If you can’t remember the last time your trees were professionally pruned, it’s probably overdue – time to call in professional tree services. Proper pruning improves structure, promotes healthy growth, and helps prevent breakage.
Storm Damage
Severe weather can take a toll on trees, snapping branches, splitting trunks, or even partially uprooting them. Even if a tree doesn’t fall completely, storm damage can leave it vulnerable to decay, disease, or collapse later. If you see broken limbs, cracks in the trunk, or any other signs of storm damage, it’s best to get an expert assessment before the next heavy wind makes things worse.
Pests Have Taken Over
Insects and pests can wreak havoc on trees, often going unnoticed until significant damage has occurred. Common signs of infestation include:
- Holes in the bark or leaves – This could indicate boring insects or caterpillars feeding on the tree.
- Sawdust-like residue at the base – Some pests, like beetles, burrow into the wood and leave behind small piles of sawdust.
- Sticky residue or black mould – Aphids and other sap-sucking insects leave behind a sugary substance called honeydew, which can attract black sooty mould.
- Unusual webbing or nests – If you see webbing in branches or clusters of tiny eggs, it may be a sign of spider mites or other harmful pests.
Left untreated, pest infestations can weaken trees, making them more susceptible to disease and breakage. Professional tree services can assess the situation and recommend the best treatment to save the tree before the problem spreads.
Keeping Your Trees Healthy and Safe
Trees are an asset to any property, but they need the right care to thrive. Ignoring potential issues can lead to safety risks, costly damage, or even losing the tree altogether. If you’ve noticed any of these warning signs, bringing in professional tree services is the best way to protect your home, landscape, and the trees themselves. Don’t wait until a problem becomes an emergency—invest in proper care now to enjoy strong, beautiful trees for years to come.
