There are plenty of reasons to be concerned about unhealthy trees on your property. Sick and damaged trees can be unstable and pose a significant risk to your safety and property the next time a storm rolls in. While some issues can be fixed with cabling and bracing, other problems require tree removal.

If any of the following sounds familiar, it may be time to remove the unhealthy tree affecting your peace of mind.

You Notice Weak and Dead Leaves, Branches, or Bark

These are key indications that your tree suffers from diseases, pests, or other significant stressors. If bark easily detaches from the tree, branches snap easily, or the leaves on a branch die off, it’s a sign that the tree is in severe distress and may be beyond the point of rescue.

There Is Fungal Growth on the Base or Trunk

Mushrooms may seem innocuous. However, fungal growth at the base of your tree or within the trunk is a sign of disease. If left untreated, the fungus will eventually kill the tree. Other signs of tree disease include stunted growth, depressions within the wood, and wilting or discolored leaves/needles. You may also see scabs in the fruits if it’s a fruit-bearing tree.

Your Tree Has a Hollow Trunk

Tree hollows can occur due to wind breakage, lightning strikes, fires, and, more commonly, due to decay caused by fungi and insects.

While some older trees can survive with a hollow cavity, many younger trees will not, and the tree will often die when a large hollow forms. Nothing can be done to improve tree health and correct a hollow within the tree, and if the tree doesn’t have a strong trunk and root system, it will easily bend and snap when a hard wind blows through.

There Is No New Growth

Healthy trees continue to grow year after year. Trees grow taller and wider, and branches reach across the sky. However, dead and dying trees will not continue to grow. As the tree dies, it will become weaker, branches will become brittle, and it won’t be long before pieces begin to break off and fall into your yard or onto your roof.

The Tree Is Too Close to the Home

As trees grow, their roots expand in the search for nutrients and water. If the tree is too close to your home, this growth will eventually reach your foundation. The roots can damage basement walls and undermine your slab when this happens. Thus, it’s best to remove the tree before it can cause structural damage to your home. 

There Is Storm Damage

High winds, ice, hail, and other weather events can cause considerable damage to your tree. While dead and damaged branches can be cut away following tree storm damage, there is a limit to how many branches can be removed before the tree dies and removal becomes necessary.

Your Tree Has Root Rot

If caught early, root rot can be treated. However, most trees with root rot are beyond the point of recovery. If you notice poor growth, weak/dead branches, a thinning canopy, or fungal growth around the base, then it’s crucial to have a professional arborist examine your roots for signs of root rot.

Depend On Bratt Tree Company for Healthy Trees in Minnesota

At Bratt Tree Co., our ISA-certified arborists work hard to keep your trees in excellent health. We recommend contacting us first before attempting to treat or cut down your tree. Our team is always prepared to evaluate your tree health on-site and help you determine the best course of action.

When you need a professional arborist for tree pruning, tree removal, or emergency tree service, our team is ready to respond with all the necessary equipment and training to perform the task quickly and effectively. 

If you need help with tree removal, contact us online or call 612-721-4153 for expert and reliable tree services in the Twin Cities area!