The Tree Removal Checklist: When It Might Be Time to Have Your Tree Removed
Tree removal is the last option in tree care for damaged or unstable trees. Everyone would rather see a tree make a full recovery and be able to flourish. But sometimes trees are too damaged, are too close to a structure, or can\’t be allowed to grow further. If you have a tree that you\’re not quite sure what to do with, run through this checklist to see if you should call in an expert to remove your trees:
Is it the wrong species for the area?
Some trees aren\’t suited for neighborhoods. They attract pests, they drop a lot of debris. Or they have weak root systems that stay close to the surface and are easily damaged. Some trees are also wrong for the region: they\’re an invasive species (or they bring invasive species with them), their roots are susceptible to disease, and they are always damaged after winter.
Is more than a third of the tree hollow?
The important parts of the tree are right up against the bark. But the trunk is what provides the structural integrity that stops the whole tree from falling over.
Is the trunk damaged?
All tree trunks get a small amount of damage. Usually in the form of cracks, stubs from dead branches, or patched over signs of decay. But if you notice those signs growing week after weak, or the damaged areas is more than a quarter of the circumference, the internal rot might be weakening the whole tree.
Is all of the damage on one side of the tree?
While that may mean all the rot is localized. Or a storm only physically damaged one side of the trunk, the tree might not be stable. Even if an arborist doesn\’t suggest removing the whole tree, they\’ll know the right procedure for removing the dead branches and adding in support.
No matter what signs of damage you see on your tree; it\’s always better to be safe and call in an expert. You can follow along on Facebook and Instagram, or you can contact us here if you have any questions or to find more tips about inspecting your trees and what an arborist can do to help.
