While trees are great to have around, sometimes their health declines, or they become hazardous for one reason or another. If you've spotted some worrying signs, it may be time to consider professional tree removal. Here are some indicators that your tree needs to go before it causes bigger issues.

1. Falling Limbs or Cracks

Have you seen small or large limbs fall from your tree even when there's no wind? This dead wood dropping is often the first noticeable sign that your tree is failing. Similarly, pay attention to any new deep cracks or splits in the trunk or major branches, which signify interior decay and instability. Remember, a falling mature tree can easily smash through a roof or vehicle or injure someone. Don't wait until a storm reveals its decline. Schedule an inspection and likely tree removal as soon as you notice these warnings to stay safe.

2. A Tilting or Leaning Trunk

While some minor lean can occur naturally as trees grow, a sharply angled or tilted tree should raise red flags. This suggests extensive root damage or failure on one side. With the tree's balance compromised, the heavy toppling weight of the remaining branches poses a serious hazard to people and property below. In fact, according to survey results from OSHA, over 100 people are killed by trees every year in the United States. Have an arborist check the soil and roots around a major leaner to see if corrective measures like cables and supports can temporarily brace the tree or if swift tree removal is the necessary solution.

3. Visible Diseases or Infestations

Beyond structural issues, unhealthy trees also need removal when they become infected by fungus, mold, or insects like termites, beetles, and bagworms. Warning signs include oozing black spots, powdery colored coating on leaves or twigs, lots of holes in the bark, weird growths like mushrooms at the base, and nests or cocoons in the branches. While you may be sad to see the declining tree go, leaving these contagions in place allows them to spread and endanger nearby healthy vegetation. Get an expert diagnosis if you spot anything suspicious.

If you've noticed any of the above red flags, or you have an older or massive tree that may pose inherent risks due to location, size, or type, don't put off calling certified arborists in your area. Call our team at Woodpecker Tree Service to obtain a quote for tree removal today!