Trees add beauty, shade, and value to any property, but they also require proper care and maintenance to stay healthy and safe. While regular watering and occasional pruning can be handled by homeowners, there are times when professional tree care is necessary. Ignoring tree issues can lead to property damage, safety hazards, and even the loss of a beloved tree.

If you’re unsure whether your trees need professional attention, here are five key signs that indicate it’s time to call a tree care specialist.

1. Visible Signs of Disease or Decay

One of the clearest signs that your tree needs professional attention is the presence of disease or decay. Trees, like any living organisms, are susceptible to infections, fungi, and structural decline over time. Common signs of tree disease include:

• Discolored leaves: If leaves are turning yellow, brown, or black outside of their normal seasonal changes, your tree may be suffering from disease.
• Fungal growth: Mushrooms or fungal bodies at the base of the tree or on the trunk are often a sign of internal decay.
• Cracked or peeling bark: Bark protects the tree from external threats, and when it starts to peel away or develop deep cracks, it may indicate a serious problem.
• Dead branches: If you notice branches that are brittle, dry, or have no leaves during the growing season, the tree may be struggling with disease.

A professional arborist can diagnose tree diseases, recommend treatment plans, and determine if the tree can be saved or needs removal. Addressing diseases early can prevent them from spreading to other trees on your property.

2. Leaning or Unstable Trees

While some trees naturally grow at an angle, a sudden or worsening lean is a serious concern. A leaning tree may indicate root damage, soil erosion, or structural instability. Here are a few warning signs to watch for:

• A sudden lean: If your tree starts to tilt unexpectedly, especially after a storm, it may have suffered root damage or weakening of its support system.
• Exposed roots: If you notice roots lifting from the ground or becoming exposed, the tree may be losing its grip on the soil.
• Cracks in the soil around the base: This could mean the tree is shifting and at risk of toppling over.
• Splits or cracks in the trunk: These structural damages can weaken the tree and make it more prone to falling.

A leaning tree poses a significant danger to nearby structures, power lines, and people. A professional tree care specialist can assess the risk and provide solutions such as bracing, cabling, or, in severe cases, removal.

3. Overgrown or Hazardous Branches

Branches that grow too large or extend dangerously close to buildings, power lines, or roadways should be trimmed by a professional. Overgrown branches can lead to property damage, obstruct visibility, or even pose a safety hazard during storms.

Some warning signs include:

• Branches touching power lines: Trees growing too close to electrical lines can become a fire hazard or cause power outages.
• Overhanging limbs near roofs or windows: Large branches hanging over structures can break off during storms and cause significant damage.
• Low-hanging branches obstructing pathways: If tree limbs block sidewalks, driveways, or road signs, they need to be pruned for safety and accessibility.
• Cracked or split branches: Weak branches can fall unexpectedly, posing a risk to anyone nearby.

Professional arborists have the expertise and tools to trim trees safely while maintaining their health and natural shape. Improper trimming by an untrained individual can lead to stress, disease, or structural weakness in the tree.

4. Pest Infestations

Trees can attract a variety of pests, some of which can cause significant harm. While a few bugs here and there are normal, a full-blown infestation can weaken a tree and make it susceptible to disease or structural failure. Some common tree pests include:

• Termites: These wood-eating insects can cause serious damage to a tree’s structure.
• Borers: Insects like the emerald ash borer drill into tree trunks, disrupting nutrient flow and leading to decline.
• Aphids and scale insects: These pests suck the sap from leaves and stems, weakening the tree over time.
• Caterpillars and webworms: Large populations of these pests can strip a tree of its leaves, affecting its ability to produce energy.

Signs of infestation include holes in the bark, sawdust-like debris near the base, leaves that appear chewed or discolored, and sticky residue (honeydew) on leaves. A tree care specialist can identify the specific pest issue and provide treatment options, such as insecticides or tree injections, to save your tree.

5. Storm Damage or Weak Structure

Storms can take a serious toll on trees, leaving them broken, weakened, or even at risk of falling. High winds, heavy snow, ice accumulation, and lightning strikes can all cause significant damage. After a storm, check for the following signs:

• Broken or hanging branches: These can fall unexpectedly and cause injury or property damage.
• Partially uprooted trees: Trees that have been shifted from the ground may be unstable and prone to falling.
• Bark stripped off by lightning: Lightning-damaged trees may have a large strip of missing bark or appear scorched.
• Weak or split trunks: Severe weather can cause structural damage that makes the tree unsafe.

Even if a tree looks intact after a storm, internal damage may not be visible to the untrained eye. A professional arborist can assess the extent of the damage and determine whether the tree can be salvaged or needs to be removed.

The Importance of Professional Tree Care

While some tree care tasks, like raking leaves or light pruning, can be done by homeowners, more complex issues require expert knowledge and equipment. Here’s why calling a professional tree care specialist is the best choice:

• Safety: Tree work can be dangerous, especially when dealing with large trees, high branches, or unstable structures. Certified arborists have the proper tools and training to perform the job safely.
• Tree health: Professionals understand how to properly diagnose and treat tree diseases, pest infestations, and structural issues without harming the tree.
• Property protection: Improper pruning or removal can lead to costly damage to your home, vehicles, or surrounding landscape.
• Legal considerations: Some areas have regulations regarding tree trimming and removal, especially for trees near power lines or public spaces. A professional can ensure compliance with local laws.

When to Call a Tree Care Specialist

If you notice any of the five signs mentioned above, don’t wait until the problem worsens. Early intervention can save a tree from decline or prevent a hazardous situation. Reach out to a certified arborist for an assessment and professional advice on the best course of action.

Final Thoughts

Trees are a valuable part of any property, providing beauty, shade, and environmental benefits. However, they require proper care to remain safe and healthy. Recognizing the signs of disease, structural instability, overgrown branches, pest infestations, and storm damage can help you determine when it’s time to call a professional tree care specialist.

By investing in expert tree care, you can enhance the longevity of your trees, protect your property, and ensure the safety of your family and neighbors. If you’re ever in doubt about the health of your trees, don’t hesitate to seek professional help—it’s always better to be safe than sorry.