Trees provide shade, beauty, and a sense of peace. But, like any other living organism, they need attention and care. That’s where an arborist comes in. These professionals specialise in the care and maintenance of trees. So, how do you know when it’s time to bring in an arborist?
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Your Tree Looks Unhealthy
Just like humans, trees can get sick. However, unlike us, they can’t tell you when something is wrong. It’s up to you to look out for the warning signs of poor health. Have you noticed the leaves looking discoloured, wilting, or falling off out of season? Are there unusual spots or growths on the bark? These are all red flags that something’s not right.
Unhealthy trees can be caused by a number of issues, including pests, disease, or poor soil conditions. The longer you wait, the worse the problem can get. An arborist can diagnose the issue and offer solutions, such as treatment plans or soil improvements.
Dead Branches or Limbs
Another key sign is dead or dying branches. If your tree has large sections of dead limbs, it’s not only an indicator of declining health but also a potential safety hazard. Dead branches can fall without warning, potentially damaging property or injuring someone.
Arborists, like those at Tree Problem No Problem, have the expertise to safely remove these branches and assess the overall health of the tree. In some cases, it might just be a few branches that need trimming, while other times, the tree may need more extensive intervention. Ignoring this sign can put your home and family at risk, so it’s always best to consult a professional if you notice this.
The Tree is Leaning
Is one of your trees starting to lean to one side? This could indicate an unstable root system or internal damage that isn’t immediately visible. While some trees naturally grow with a slight lean, a significant or sudden change in posture should raise concerns.
Leaning trees are particularly dangerous during storms or high winds, as they are more likely to topple. An arborist can determine whether the tree can be saved through support techniques or whether it’s safer to have it removed. Either way, this is definitely not a problem to ignore!
Roots Are Exposed or Damaged
The health of a tree starts from the ground up. If you notice roots sticking out of the soil or showing signs of damage, it could be a serious issue. Exposed roots can lead to instability, making the tree more vulnerable to falling over. Additionally, roots that have been damaged by construction work, heavy foot traffic, or gardening can affect the tree’s ability to absorb nutrients.
Roots are critical to a tree’s well-being, so if you spot any irregularities, it’s time to call in an arborist. They can evaluate the root system and provide advice on how to protect and support it, ensuring the long-term health of your tree.
Fungus Growth Around the Base
Fungi and mushrooms around the base of a tree may seem harmless, but they could be a sign of internal decay. Fungi thrive in decaying organic matter, and when they appear around your tree’s trunk or roots, it usually means there’s rot beneath the surface.
This kind of decay can weaken the structural integrity of your tree, making it more prone to falling. An arborist will be able to assess the extent of the damage and determine whether the tree can be saved or if removal is the safer option.
Insect Infestation
Another red flag to watch for is an insect infestation. While some insects are harmless or even beneficial, others can cause serious damage. Pests like termites, borers, or beetles can eat away at a tree’s bark, leaves, or roots, leading to long-term damage or even death.
Signs of an infestation include visible holes in the bark, sawdust-like material around the base of the tree, or an unusual number of insects crawling on or around it. If you suspect a pest problem, an arborist can identify the culprit and suggest treatments to prevent further damage.
You Haven’t Had a Professional Inspection in Years
Even if your trees seem healthy, regular inspections by a professional are a good idea. Trees grow and change over time, and issues can develop that aren’t immediately visible to the untrained eye. An arborist can catch these problems early, saving you time, money, and potential headaches down the road.
It’s particularly important to have an arborist inspect your trees if you’ve recently had landscaping work done or have experienced severe weather. Both of these can impact the health of your trees in ways you might not notice.
When to Act
The health and safety of your trees should never be overlooked. If any of the signs mentioned above sound familiar, it’s time to call in an expert. Arborists don’t just remove trees—they care for them, ensuring they remain a healthy, beautiful part of your property for years to come.
Investing in professional care now could prevent costly and dangerous situations in the future. So, don’t wait for a branch to fall or for an insect infestation to spread—stay ahead of potential problems with regular tree care.
