Trees are an important part of our ecosystem. They help to control air quality, cut down on high temperatures, and, of course, beautify our yards. Planting trees that are native to Georgia is a great way to approach your home landscaping.
However, there may come a time in your experience as a homeowner when you have to make some tough decisions. Tree removal can become crucial to your safety, your property's security, and the health of your other trees.
Deciding when to cut a tree down can be tricky. What are the signs that a tree in your yard needs to go?
Read on for our complete guide to Georgia tree removal. We'll talk about when to cut a tree down and how to approach it.
When to Cut a Tree Down: Signs of Problem Trees
There are signs that your trees need to come down. However, if you're not familiar with trees, you may not notice these signs right away. We're here to share our expertise so that you can look out for the signs and symptoms of problem trees.
Symptoms of Illness
Just like other living organisms, trees can contract diseases that cause temporary or permanent damage. This is not only concerning because it may cause the tree to die but because these diseases can spread to surrounding trees and plants. Some common tree illnesses in Georgia include root disease, sudden oak death, and thousand cankers disease.
General symptoms of tree illness include:
- Excessive amounts of dropped leaves
- Weak or rotting branches and/or trunk
- Leaf discoloration
- Peeling bark (note that some species have bark that is supposed to peel, in which case this is not a sign of disease)
- Rotting roots
When you notice these signs, contact your local arborists. They can assess the type and extent of the disease.
Fungus Growth
Fungus growth tends to indicate one of two things.
The first is that your tree is damaged and possibly decaying. Most fungi prefer to grow on trunks and stumps that are in some stage of decay.
The second is that you're dealing with a species of fungus that can grow on healthy trees. The problem is that most of the time, this fungus will take your healthy tree and leave it unhealthy.
Some fungus is beneficial to trees. It will take accurate identification to determine if you have good fungus on your trees or bad fungus.
Pest Problems
Most of the time, it's a positive experience to share your trees with animals and insects. You may discover a nest of baby birds in the branches of your trees, or a butterfly cocoon nestled under the leaves. Occasionally, however, you may discover that your tree has become host to some less pleasant animals.
If your trees have attracted dangerous animals like snakes or scorpions, you may need to remove them. This is also the case if your trees have become infested with crop-destroying insects such as aphids.
You may be able to eradicate these species with the help of pest control. However, if they keep returning, your better option is likely tree removal.
Structural or Safety Issues
We find that most homeowners learn when to cut down a tree when trees on their property present structural or safety issues. The key, here, is to remove the tree before it falls or causes damage.
Some signs of potential structural or safety issues include:
- Invasive root systems that are invading other features of your yard
- Invasive root systems that are growing near your foundation, driveway, patio, underground plumbing, or sidewalks
- Branches that are hanging over your roof, driveway, or walkways
- Branches that are growing at an angle that may cause breakage
- Trunks that are growing at an angle that may cause breakage
- Damage caused by weather (ie hanging branches, water damaged roots, scorching or burning caused by lightning, etc)
Some of these issues can be fixed without full tree removal. Tree pruning may be the solution if you're dealing with individual overhanging branches. Your local arborists can take a closer look and assess the best solution for your tree problems.
Resource-Draining Species
Why is it best to use native plants in your landscaping? Native plants are well-adapted to our climate. The weather patterns, soil conditions, rainfall, and sunlight are all suitable for their growth.
Some non-native species may do well in your Georgia yard. However, some may require more water, for example, than the rest of the plants in your yard. If you discover that one of your trees is creating a drain on your resources, it's best to remove it before spending money and effort trying to keep it alive.
Finding the Right Tree Company For Your Tree Removal
Once you learn when to cut a tree down, it's time to start looking for tree companies in your area. Tree removal requires the proper tools and expertise to complete the job safely.
Canopy Tree & Land provides expert tree removal services for Gainesville homeowners. Our tree removal methods are safe, sustainable, and efficient. Our trained and licensed arborists will always assess the state of your trees to provide the best services possible.
Contact Canopy Tree & Land For Gainesville Tree Removal
As a homeowner, it's important to recognize when to cut a tree down. Unfortunately, some trees can pose a threat to our safety, our homes, and to the surrounding landscaping. The best approach is to remove those trees before any potential problems escalate.
If you need tree removal in Gainesville, Georgia, we are here to help. Contact us today and let us know about the services you need for your trees. We provide free estimates for all of our clients so that you can make the most informed decision for your property.
