Emergency Tree Removal
Your tree lost a few branches during a recent storm, but otherwise, it looks fine. Is it really necessary to have it inspected? The short answer is yes. While it may appear that your tree has survived the storm mostly unscathed, there could be internal wounds or structural damage that isn’t immediately visible to the untrained eye.
Even if a storm hasn’t recently blown through your neighborhood, trees can sustain damage in other ways. Construction projects near the root zone, frequent vehicle or pedestrian traffic, landscaping mishaps, strong winds, disease, and insect infestations can all injure a tree over time. And like with storm damage, the harm your tree has suffered may not immediately be visible, but left untreated, the damage could become worse and pose a risk to your loved ones, property, and even neighboring trees. To help you decide if you should get your tree inspected by a certified arborist, we explain the potential risks of an untreated tree and what your options may be.
The Dangers of Leaving a Tree Untreated
Trees are incredibly resilient, but they are not invincible. When a tree sustains damage, whether from nature or human activity, it becomes vulnerable in several ways, and without proper treatment and monitoring, even minor damage can lead to serious consequences.
Structural Instability
One of the most pressing risks of an untreated tree is structural instability. Cracks in the trunk, broken limbs, and weakened root systems can significantly increase the likelihood of large branches falling or the tree itself toppling over. This poses a danger not only to people and pets but also to nearby buildings, vehicles, and utility lines. Because the tree’s stability is compromised, it may not even require another storm or high-wind event to cause a branch to snap. For this reason, it’s beneficial to have your trees routinely inspected by a certified arborist.
Spread of Disease and Pests
Wounds on a tree are like an open door to fungal spores, bacteria, and boring insects. Once inside the tree, they can cause rot, wilting, dieback, and even death. The damage may start in a localized area but can quickly move throughout the tree and spread to other trees in your yard if not controlled. Addressing these issues early on can prevent a widespread outbreak and maintain the health of your entire landscape.
Accelerated Decline
Trees are living organisms, and like any living thing, they can become stressed when injured. Chronic stress from untreated wounds or infections weakens the tree’s ability to absorb nutrients, fight off additional pests, and recover from environmental stressors like drought or extreme temperatures. Over time, this leads to a slow but steady decline, with thinning canopies, dead branches, and stunted growth.
Liability Concerns
Another risk of an untreated tree is potential liability. If a diseased or structurally compromised tree causes injury or property damage, the homeowner could be held legally responsible, especially if it’s determined that the damage was preventable. Regular inspections and timely treatment by a certified arborist can serve as documentation that you took appropriate steps to care for your trees, reducing your risk of liability.
How a Certified Arborist Can Save a Damaged Tree
When it comes to diagnosing and treating tree damage, arborists certified by the International Society of Arboriculture are your best allies. They are trained professionals who understand the complexities of tree biology, soil conditions, climate factors, and disease management. Their expertise can be invaluable in preserving the health of your trees and keeping your property safe.
Comprehensive Inspections
Arborists conduct thorough inspections of a tree’s health, from the roots to the crown. They look for signs of decomposition, cavities, bark damage, root rot, and pest infestations that the average homeowner might overlook. With the use of specialized tools and knowledge, they can pinpoint both visible and hidden problems.
Customized Treatment Plans
After the inspection, an arborist can recommend a tailored treatment plan based on the tree’s specific needs. This might include pruning to remove damaged limbs, cabling to support weak branches, soil treatments to promote root health, or applying insecticides and fungicides. In some cases, tree removal may be the safest option, but arborists will exhaust other possibilities before making that recommendation.
Ongoing Maintenance
Tree care doesn’t end with a one-time visit. Certified arborists can schedule regular inspections and maintenance to monitor the tree’s recovery and adapt the treatment plan as needed. Preventive care, such as mulching, watering, and deep root fertilization, can also strengthen your tree against future damage and help it thrive year-round.
Emergency Response
If a tree does suffer major storm damage, certified arborists are equipped to respond quickly and safely. They can assess the extent of the damage, perform emergency pruning or bracing, and determine whether the tree poses an immediate hazard. This can help you avoid hasty decisions and unnecessary removals.
Get Peace of Mind With Heartwood Tree Care
When it comes to your tree’s health, you should always trust your instincts. You see your trees almost daily, and if you think one has changed the way it’s standing, it’s important to report it to your arborist. That feeling that a tree is not as healthy as it once was often comes from months, if not years, of seeing it in relation to the other trees and structures around it.
If you’re ever unsure about the health and condition of one of the trees on your property, don’t hesitate to reach out to Heartwood Tree Care. Our ISA-certified arborists are here to provide a comprehensive tree risk assessment whenever your gut tells you something is off about your tree. We’ll inspect every part of it — from the roots to the canopy — to identify any potential issues that may need attention. Even if there isn’t any damage, we can recommend plant health care solutions that boost your tree’s resilience against future storms, construction projects, and daily life.
If you feel a tree has moved or been damaged in any way, contact Heartwood Tree Care to schedule an inspection. And remember, it’s best to have your trees inspected every three years, after a particularly bad weather event, or whenever you get that feeling that something is wrong.