Trees provide shade, ecological balance, and beauty to our world. At the same time, these majestic, living organisms can grow very large and become potentially hazardous. Routine tree maintenance is necessary for a tree’s health and longevity, but sometimes emergency intervention is needed to prevent accidents or property damage. Recognizing the signs that indicate the need for urgent tree care can help you act swiftly and responsibly.
Today our ISA-certified arborists in Johnson City are sharing some red flags to watch out for:
1. Visible decay or rot
Decay and rot compromise a tree’s structural integrity, weakening its ability to support its weight. If you notice fungal growth, soft or spongy wood and/or hollow areas in a tree’s trunk or its branches, these are all signs of decay and warrant a call to our Johnson City professional arborists.
2. Unexplained foliage loss
Trees naturally shed leaves or needles during certain seasons, but sudden and extensive foliage loss can indicate underlying issues such as disease, pests, or root damage.
3. Cracks or splits
Cracks or splits in a tree’s trunk or branches indicate structural weakness. These vulnerabilities weaken the tree’s integrity, which makes the tree a hazard to people and property, especially during adverse weather conditions.
4. Dead or hanging branches
Dead tree branches can fall unexpectedly, posing a danger to people and property. Hanging branches — known as widowmakers — are detached limbs that are caught in a tree’s canopy, just waiting to fall. Removing dead or hanging branches is a proactive way to prevent accidents and maintain the overall health of a tree.
5. Insect infestation
Some insects are harmless, and some can even be beneficial to trees. Others, however, can wreak havoc on a tree’s health. If you notice visible pests, abnormal leaf discoloration or curling, and/or the presence of holes or tunnels in a tree’s trunk or branches, you may be looking at an insect infestation. Left untreated, this can weaken a tree and make it susceptible to other stressors, which can cause the tree to eventually die.
Tree care in Kingsport, Johnson City, and Bristol, Tennessee
While beautiful and helpful, trees that show signs of disease, insect infestation, or distress pose a risk to people and property. This warrants an emergency call to our office. If you have a tree that needs to be inspected or removed, contact our ISA-certified arborists at Promier Tree in the Tri-cities area at (423) 872-2988, or reach us online today.