​​Trees add beauty and value to any property, but when they become unstable or diseased, they pose significant risks. Identifying hazardous trees early can prevent property damage, personal injury, and costly emergency removals. In this guide, we’ll discuss key warning signs that indicate a tree may be dangerous and in need of removal.

Leaning Trees

• While some trees naturally lean, a sudden or worsening lean can indicate structural instability.
• Cracked soil or exposed roots near the base can suggest the tree is losing its grip on the ground.
• Trees leaning toward structures, driveways, or walkways are particularly hazardous.

Multiple Trunks or Weak Unions

• Trees with multiple trunks or branches that form a tight V-shape are more prone to splitting.
• Weak unions, where branches join at a narrow angle, can break under heavy wind or ice loads.
• Regular inspections can identify potential weak spots before they cause damage.

Large Dead Branches

• Dead or broken limbs can fall unexpectedly, posing a risk to people and property.
• Branches that are missing bark or have no leaves during growing seasons are likely dead.
• Routine pruning can prevent hazardous branches from becoming a larger problem.

Cracks and Cavities

• Large cracks in the trunk may indicate serious internal decay.
• Cavities or hollow sections weaken the tree’s overall structure and can lead to breakage.
• A certified arborist can assess the severity and recommend whether removal is necessary.

Fungal Growth (Mushrooms at the Base)

• Mushrooms or fungi growing at the base of a tree often signal internal rot.
• Trees with extensive fungal infections may become weak and structurally compromised.

Peeling or Missing Bark

• Bark protects the tree’s inner layers; missing or peeling bark can indicate stress or disease.
• Sunken or discolored patches on the trunk are additional signs of declining health.

Sudden Leaf Loss or Discoloration

• Trees that lose leaves prematurely or have yellowing leaves outside of seasonal changes may be unhealthy.
• Thinning canopies or branches with no new growth may indicate disease or root damage.

Insect Infestation

• Termites, beetles, or other boring insects can weaken a tree’s structure.
• Holes in the trunk, sawdust-like residue, or excessive woodpecker activity are common infestation signs.

Exposed or Damaged Roots

• Root damage from construction, erosion, or disease can destabilize a tree.
• Cutting major roots during landscaping projects can reduce the tree’s ability to anchor itself.

Heaving Soil Around the Base

• Soil that appears lifted or cracked near the tree’s base may indicate root movement.
• This can be an early warning that the tree is shifting and at risk of falling.

Consult a Certified Arborist

• A professional tree assessment can determine whether a tree can be saved or needs removal.
• Arborists use specialized tools and knowledge to detect internal decay and structural weaknesses.

Pruning vs. Removal

• If only certain branches are compromised, pruning may be enough to improve stability.
• Trees with extensive decay, severe leaning, or compromised root systems often require full removal.

Emergency Tree Removal

• If a tree poses an immediate danger, such as after a storm, emergency removal services may be needed.
• Never attempt to remove a large or hazardous tree on your own—always call a professional.

Spotting the early warning signs of a dangerous tree can prevent costly damages and potential injuries. Regular inspections and maintenance can keep your landscape safe and beautiful. If you suspect a tree on your property may be hazardous, contact a professional tree service for a thorough evaluation and expert recommendations.

Have you ever looked at a tree in your yard and thought, "Is it taking a really long nap, or has it shuffled off its mortal coil?" You're not alone! Many homeowners find themselves playing the arborist version of Sherlock Holmes, trying to deduce whether their tree is dead or just very, very relaxed. Here at Big Bark Tree Care, we're all about helping you solve these leafy mysteries—with a hint of humor (just a dash, we promise).

The Great Tree Detective: How to Spot a Tree in the Afterlife
1. The Tale of the Silent Buds

In the spring, trees should be bustling with activity, popping out buds faster than popcorn at a movie theater. If your tree is more on the "silent movie" end of the spectrum, it might be time to start worrying. A lack of leaves and buds is often the first sign that your tree might be auditioning for a role in "The Walking Dead: Arbor Edition."

2. The Scratch Test: Under the Bark

Don your detective hat and gently scratch a small piece of bark from a branch. If you find green, congratulations! Your tree is alive and kicking. If it's brown and dry, well, it might be time to call in the professionals at Big Bark Tree Care. We promise to handle your tree with all the care of a beloved family pet (that doesn't need to be walked).

3. Branches: The Snap Judgment

Try bending a few branches. If they snap with a sound reminiscent of eating crackers in a quiet library, they're dead. Living branches, on the other hand, are more flexible than a yoga instructor. Remember, if a branch snaps off and hits you, it might be the tree's way of reaching out for help (or it's just grumpy; trees can be moody, too).

4. Trunk Drama: A Story of Splits and Cracks

Inspect the trunk for cracks, splits, and other novella-worthy drama. These signs can indicate a tree's internal struggle, much like reading a teenager's diary. Also, keep an eye out for fungi, which are the equivalent of a tree wearing too much cologne—it's trying to cover something up.

5. The Lean of Doom

If your tree is leaning like it's trying to initiate a game of limbo, it might be unstable. This is the tree's last-ditch attempt to catch your attention—like a dramatic exit in a soap opera. At Big Bark Tree Care, we specialize in giving these trees a dignified exit, ensuring they don't accidentally take out your fence on their way down.

6. The Professional Touch: Big Bark Tree Care to the Rescue

If all this detective work sounds like a lot, fear not! Big Bark Tree Care is here to take the magnifying glass out of your hand. We've got the expertise to determine if your tree is just being dramatic or if it's truly taken its final bow. Plus, we do it with a smile and the gentle touch of someone who whispers apologies to their plants when they forget to water them.

The Final Leaf: When to Say Goodbye
Saying goodbye to a tree can be tough. It's like parting with an old friend who's stood silently by your side, offering shade and shelter (and occasionally dropping leaves all over your lawn in a passive-aggressive move). But sometimes, it's necessary for the safety of your home and family.

At Big Bark Tree Care, we don't just remove trees; we honor their memory by ensuring the rest of your garden thrives. And who knows? Perhaps there's room for a new sapling to write its own story in your yard—a story we'd be thrilled to help you start.

So, if your tree is giving you the silent treatment, showing signs of decay, or just seems a bit too "dead" for your liking, give us a call. We'll bring our expertise, and our commitment to trees (both living and departed) to your doorstep. Remember, every tree has its day—some just need a little help finding their way out.