Trees are an essential part of any landscape, providing just as much aesthetic value as utilitarian. They provide shade, home for birds, and can even offer a layer of privacy to your property, but when they are dead, they can be dangerous.
After decades in the field, we understand that the average Joe may not realize the dangers of a dead or dying tree on your property, which is why we’re here to shed some light on the topic. Whether your landscape has one or one hundred trees, you’ll want to have a basic understanding of these structures.
Three Dead Giveaways Your Tree is Dying
We take tree care very seriously, that’s why we’ve assembled a team of expert Arborists! Healthy shrubs and trees can add a lot of value to your landscape, but knowing when to remove a tree is just as important as general maintenance. The information we’ll get into today is equally relevant for commercial and residential properties.
If you’re concerned that your property’s tree(s) are in danger, here are three dead giveaways that your tree is in trouble.
1. Fungus
Have you heard of wood conks? These are the large fungus, also called shelf or bracket fungus, that may form on the trunk or branch of a tree. This typically indicates internal rot, and the growth of fungus is a red flag you shouldn’t ignore.
2. Root Damage
One of the more difficult ways to diagnose a dying tree is to observe root damage. This typically requires a professional opinion. However, a telltale sign of root damage is a new and noticeable lean to the tree. Or small branches sprouting from the trunk and base of the tree—common signs of distress. If your property has undergone new construction or recent excavation projects, this is definitely something you want to be on the lookout for.
3. Visible Damage to the Trunk
Another easy way to tell your tree isn’t healthy is to look for splits and cracks along the trunk. Vertical cracks that do not repair itself and areas without bark that does not regenerate are common signs of a dying tree.
So, you noticed one or more of these red flags, now what? Call in the professionals! Our team of Certified Arborists will take care of your trees and determine if they’re in a position to be salvaged or if removal is necessary. Still not sure why removing a dead tree is such a big deal? We’ll get into that now!
Why You Should Remove the Dead Trees
While every tree is different in size, shape, species, etc. dead trees have one thing in common: they can be a huge menace to your property. Here are just a few reasons why you should move “removing the dead tree” to the top of your to-do list.
Tree Disease is Contagious
If one of your trees has died because of disease, the other trees and plants on your property are at risk. Diseased trees may develop a powdery substance that spreads from branches and leaves to neighboring plants.
They’re Dangerous
There’s no way to tell when a dead or dying tree could fall and certain conditions, like a storm, could speed up the process. However, leaving a dead tree for too long increases the risk of it falling on your home, building, car, or worse, falling and injuring a passerby.
They Attract Pests
While we aren’t big fans of dead trees, wildlife sure are. Imagine your tree becoming home to pests like rats or termites. Do you really want them setting up shop in such close vicinity to your home or commercial property?
Dead Trees Don’t Look Good
What’s the point of investing time and money into making your landscape look great if you’re going to leave a big, dead, leafless tree sitting there? Dead trees aren’t pretty, period.
It’s Less Expensive to Remove a Dead Tree
When it comes to removing a dead or fallen tree, a dead one that’s still in place is a much easier job. Remember how we said falling branches and trunks could be costly?
Imagine how much it’d cost to replace your roof, or your neighbor’s car, should your dead tree topple over. Waiting to remove can also make the removal require specialized lift equipment increasing cost.
Trees are unpredictable, but with the right monitoring and maintenance, our team of experts can develop a solid approach to keeping your landscape looking great and as healthy as ever! While we’re on the topic of removing trees, it’s not a bad time to mention fall planting.
Our Certified Arborists can help you assess existing trees on your property while giving you some information about fall planting. The best time to plant new trees is the fall season (mid-August to October) thanks to moderate temperatures and fall moisture.
Some of the best trees to plant during this season include Alder, Ash, Buckeye, Crabapple, Honey Locust, Maple, and Sycamore. There are plenty more options to choose from, and our tree experts would be happy to walk you through them!
Get in Touch Today!
Do your due diligence and call in the experts today. The Complete Landsculpture team will meet you at your property to ensure your trees are in good shape, walk you through a plan for removal of any dead trees, and help you decide on the best options for replanting.
You can check out our portfolio here for some inspiration or get in touch with us directly with our contact form.
