01 Jul Warning Signs Your Tree Should Be Removed
The ailing tree in your backyard is causing concern, and with good reason. Its unusual lean, hollow trunk, or fungal growth could indicate serious problems that require prompt attention. A strong storm or a windy day could easily bring down a weakened tree.
While some tree issues can be treated by a professional, here are 12 signs that you may need to consider a tree removal service:
Table of Contents: 12 Signs You Need Tree Removal
1. Visible Damage or Decay
2. Hollow Tree Trunk
3. Dead Branches
4. Fungal Disease
5. Dead or Dying Tree
6. Significant or New Lean
7. Hazardous Location
8. Insect Damage
9. Invasive Species
10. Rotting Tree Roots
11. Lawn Growth
12. Weak Crotch Structure
1. Visible Damage or Decay
A damaged or decaying tree often has compromised structural integrity, making it unsafe, especially if it’s near your home. Look for the following signs:
- Vertical cracks in the trunk
- Abnormal bark peeling
- Dead branch stubs
- Visible wounds or open cavities
- Severe trunk damage
- Broken wood from a lightning strike
If your tree has endured a storm, have it inspected by a certified arborist to determine the extent of the damage and decide whether removal is necessary.
2. Hollow Tree Trunk
A hollow trunk might look charming, but it signals internal decay and weakening. Falling branches can reveal hollow cavities, which may become homes for owls and squirrels. Before disturbing wildlife, you should consult a professional at Gabe’s Top It or Drop It Tree Service to assess the tree’s health.
Pro Tip: You can test for hollowness by tapping the tree with a rubber mallet (sounding the tree), but a tree care expert can more accurately diagnose the problem.
3. Dead Branches
Dead branches can indicate disease, pests, or other stressors. While an occasional dead branch is normal, multiple dead branches may point to a larger issue. Dead branches:
- Lack foliage and buds during the growing season
- Have bark that is not firmly attached
- Are brittle and snap easily
- Lack green tissue when scraped lightly
Large dead branches are hazardous, as they can fall during a storm or under the weight of snow.
4. Fungal Disease
Fungi on your tree, such as mushrooms growing or discoloration at the base, often indicate disease. Symptoms of tree disease include:
- Wilting, falling, or discolored leaves
- Depressions in the wood
- Scabs on fruits
- Bleeding cankers
- Stunted growth
- Tiny, pimple-like spore structures
5. Dead or Dying Tree
Your tree may be salvageable if it is dying. Here are 7 signs your tree is dying, and how to save it. However, if an arborist confirms your tree is dead, removal is the only option. Signs of a dead or dying tree include:
- No leaves or buds during the growing season
- Significant lean in the trunk
- Dead branches
- Thinning canopy, needle drop, or browning needle tips in evergreens
Related: Everything You Need to Know About Winter Tree Care
6. Significant or New Lean
Are you noticing your tree leaning in your yard or on your property?
While a slight lean is normal, a dramatic or new lean suggests the tree may be decaying or damaged by storms. An arborist from a local tree company should inspect any sudden or significant lean, especially if it appears the tree is uprooting.
Contact the experts at Gabe’s Top It or Drop It Tree Service to help with your tree removal service!
7. Hazardous Location
A healthy tree can be hazardous if it’s too close to your home, power lines, or other structures. A tree expert may recommend removal to prevent potential damage.
Contact the Gabe’s Top It or Drop It Service team for questions and an estimate on hazardous tree removal services.
8. Insect Damage
Is your tree showing signs of decay from insects? Insect infestations can devastate a tree. Signs of insect damage to watch for include:
- Large silken tents on branches
- Round or D-shaped exit holes
- S-shaped or zigzagged tunnels inside the wood
- Visible larvae
- Stunted growth
- Egg masses
- Leaf damage or defoliation
For more information, please refer to this article on tree disease and pests to help you spot possible problems with your tree.
9. Invasive Species
Another common issue for possibly needing to remove your tree is when an invasive tree species also grows on your property. Invasive trees can harm your landscape by competing with native species and disrupting the ecosystem. Examples of invasive trees include:
- Chinese tallow
- Chinaberry
- Bradford pear
- White poplar
- Mimosa
- Tree of heaven
- Black locust
10. Rotting Tree Roots
Another possible reason why you may need to remove your tree are when rotting tree roots are present. Root rot can sometimes be treated, but severe cases may require removal. Symptoms mimic other issues, making diagnosis difficult. Look for:
- Poor growth
- Weak, decaying branches
- Wilted or discolored leaves
- Thinning canopy
- Fungus growing from roots
- Cankers or sunken wood
11. Interfering with Lawn Growth
Is your tee interfering with lawn growth? Might be time to remove it.
Removing a shade tree might be necessary if it’s preventing your lawn from growing. Shade-resistant grass varieties exist, but they won’t thrive as well as grass in sunlight.
12. Weak Crotch Structure
Trees with multiple trunks and tight ‘Y’ or ‘V’ crotches are vulnerable to snapping. A tree with a U-shaped crotch is typically stronger. If your tree has a weak crotch structure, removal might be necessary. To get started on your tree removal, please contact the team at Gabe’s Tree Service today!
Should You Hire a Professional or DIY Tree Removal Company?
In most cases, it’s best to leave tree removal to professionals. Removing a weak, dead, or structurally compromised tree is dangerous. Trees near homes, power lines, or other obstacles should also be handled by experts. Following the removal of your tree, you’ll want to know more information about what to plant and how to protect your tree.
DIY tree removal is only feasible for healthy, manageable-sized trees with no nearby obstacles. Ensure you’re confident using a chainsaw and have the necessary permits and equipment. Hiring a professional tree removal service, like Gabe’s Top It or Drop It Service, is the safest option for most tree removals. Gabe’s Tree Service serves Waupaca, Steven’s Point, Oshkosh, and Appleton areas.