As much as we love trees for their beauty and the shade they offer, it's essential to recognize when a tree is no longer a charming addition to your property but a potential danger. Whether you have trees in your home garden, business premises, or any other outdoor area, knowing how to spot trouble early can save you a lot of time, money, and even prevent serious accidents.

At Overberg Arborists, we’ve seen firsthand the havoc a poorly maintained tree can cause. From blocking essential sunlight to dropping limbs on unsuspecting cars or structures, trees can quickly turn from an asset to a liability. So, how can you tell when your trees are becoming a problem?

Here are five warning signs that your tree might be a hazard — and what you should do about it:

1. Tree Safety: Dead or Dying Branches

One of the most obvious signs of a hazardous tree is dead or dying branches. Whether you’re dealing with a single tree or a cluster, deadwood is a clear indicator that something isn’t right.

Look out for branches that appear dry, brittle, and have no leaves, even when the rest of the tree looks healthy. These branches can break off without warning, especially during storms or windy conditions, posing a danger to people, pets, and property below.

What to do: When you notice dead or dying branches, it’s best to have them removed as soon as possible. Regular pruning can mitigate risks, but in some cases, a more thorough assessment may be necessary. Give us a call, and our team will assess the situation to determine whether pruning or more significant intervention is required.

2. Tree Safety: Cracks or Splits in the Trunk

Tree trunks are like the backbone of the tree. When there are visible cracks, splits, or holes in the trunk, it could mean that the tree’s structure is compromised. These cracks are often a result of internal decay or external damage, such as being struck by lightning or hit by a vehicle.

The problem with cracks is that they weaken the overall stability of the tree and increase the chances of the tree breaking apart, especially under pressure from wind or weight.

Cracks aren’t always easy to spot, but if you see deep grooves or fissures in the bark, it’s time to take a closer look.

What to do: If your tree has a crack or split, it’s crucial to get a professional opinion. Trees with significant cracks may need to be removed entirely, as they pose a high risk of falling. For smaller cracks, there may be other solutions like cabling or bracing to stabilize the tree, but these methods should only be done by professionals.

3. Assessing Tree Risk: Leaning or Unstable Trunk

A tree that’s naturally growing at a slight angle might not be a problem, but if you notice a tree that’s leaning more than usual, it’s a red flag.

Trees can start to lean due to root damage, soil erosion, or wind damage. If the lean is recent or appears to be worsening, it’s a clear sign that the tree’s root system may no longer be providing the necessary support.

Leaning trees can pose a severe risk, particularly if they’re close to structures, roads, or high-traffic areas.

It’s not just about the angle; the soil around the base of the tree often tells the real story.

Look for cracked or disturbed soil, which can indicate that the roots are being lifted.

What to do: If you have a leaning tree, don’t ignore it.

The tree may need to be removed to prevent it from falling, especially if it’s leaning towards a building, powerline, or driveway. In some cases, corrective pruning or staking might help, but leaning trees are usually an indication of root failure, which is something we take very seriously at Overberg Arborists.

4. Tree Risk Assessment: Decay or Fungi Growth on the Tree

Fungi growing on or around the base of your tree is more than just a cosmetic issue. Fungal growth, especially mushrooms, is often a sign of internal decay. When you see mushrooms popping up around the roots or along the trunk, it usually indicates that the tree’s internal structure is starting to rot from the inside out.

Fungi feed on dead wood, so if they’re thriving on your tree, chances are there’s dead or decaying material within. A tree that’s rotting on the inside might still look fine on the outside, but it can quickly become unstable.

What to do: Don’t try to deal with fungal issues yourself. Some fungi are harmless, while others signal significant decay. A professional arborist will be able to assess the extent of the damage and provide recommendations. If the rot is extensive, the tree may need to be removed to ensure safety.

5. Assessing Tree Risk: Exposed or Damaged Roots

Roots are the foundation of any tree, and when they’re exposed or damaged, the entire tree’s health and stability can be compromised.

Roots can be damaged in many ways — from construction work and soil compaction to natural erosion.

Exposed roots are more vulnerable to injury, and once damaged, they can invite disease and decay, leading to an unstable tree.

Root damage often goes unnoticed until it’s too late.

But, if you start to see a tree with exposed roots or if you’ve recently had heavy construction near your trees, pay close attention to any changes in the tree’s posture or health.

What to do: If your tree has exposed or damaged roots, it’s essential to get a professional opinion immediately. We can help evaluate the extent of the damage and decide if the tree can be saved with care, or if removal is the safest option. Root damage often leads to instability, so quick action is crucial.

So, What Should You Do if Your Tree Is a Hazard?

When your tree shows signs of being a hazard, it’s not a matter to take lightly. At Overberg Arborists, we prioritize safety — for you, your property, and the environment. If you suspect one of your trees may be dangerous, here are the steps you should take:

1. Get a Professional Inspection: Don’t guess when it comes to tree hazards. Our team of trained arborists will conduct a thorough inspection of the tree to assess its health, stability, and potential risks.

   
   

2. Act Quickly: If a tree is found to be dangerous, it’s important to act swiftly. Whether it’s pruning back dangerous branches, stabilizing the tree with bracing, or removing the tree altogether, addressing the issue sooner rather than later can prevent further damage.

   
   

3. Stay Safe: Until the tree has been professionally assessed, avoid parking under it, walking near it, or letting children or pets play in its vicinity. Falling branches and unstable trees can be unpredictable, especially during bad weather.

   
   

4. Maintenance Is Key: Regular tree maintenance is essential to prevent hazards. Pruning, inspections, and proper care can help your trees stay healthy and safe for years to come.

   
   

5. Consult with Experts: Whether it’s trimming, cabling, or full removal, always leave hazardous tree work to the professionals. Overberg Arborists has the tools, knowledge, and experience to handle dangerous tree situations in a way that ensures your safety and peace of mind.

Conclusion

Trees are an incredible part of our natural landscape, but they can also be dangerous if not properly maintained.

By staying vigilant and knowing the warning signs, you can help prevent accidents and keep your property safe.

If you’re unsure about the health of your trees, don’t wait for disaster to strike — contact us at Overberg Arborists for a professional consultation.

We’re here to help keep your trees healthy, safe, and strong for the long haul.

Remember, when it comes to tree hazards, it’s always better to be proactive than reactive. Keep your trees in check, and let us handle the hard work.

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The OA Team