Trees with dense, verdant canopies can increase enjoyment in outdoor areas and enhance curb appeal. However, they may occasionally develop problems that diminish their health and structural integrity, presenting hazards to your property. Fortunately, when you know how to identify warning signs, an emergency tree service can prevent issues from worsening. Here are some common symptoms of an ill or declining tree. 

4 Signs of a Sick or Dying Tree

1. Deadwood 

Deadwood consists of segments of dead wood anywhere on the tree. Symptoms include branches that appear dry and brittle, have few or no leaves, and break easily. Deadwood can develop due to drought stress or lack of sunlight reaching and nourishing the inner limbs. An emergency tree service can strategically remove deadwood to prevent weak branches from falling and help the tree recover. However, if most of the tree features deadwood, they may recommend removing it to reduce the risk of injuries and property damage.

2. Rot Diseases

Heart rot is a disease caused by pathogenic fungi that enter inner tissues through wounds in the bark. This illness often causes the center of the trunk and connecting branches to decay, resulting in softened wood and mushroom growth on the bark. Root rot is another illness that may develop when harmful fungi grow on root systems, often due to over-watering. Common symptoms include mushroom growth at the base of the tree, cracked bark, and branch dieback. Since rot illnesses may weaken the tree structure and cause it to fall, professional tree removal can keep your family and property safe.  

3. Abnormal Leaning

Trees may develop a slight lean to reach more sunlight, which they use to make energy during photosynthesis. This type of leaning is typical and usually has no cause for concern. However, trees may lean as a result of root damage caused by excavating too close to bases or due to harsh impacts such as a vehicle crashing into the trunk. A tree that leans more than 15% from vertical may have an increased risk of falling onto anything in its path. Scheduling tree removal as soon as you notice abnormal leaning can prevent property damage and safety hazards.  

4. Pest Infestations

Beetles and borer insects may occasionally enter trees and feast upon sap and inner tissues. This can cause trees to lose water and nutrients, resulting in a slow death while weakening their structural integrity. Signs of an infestation include holes in limbs or bark, branch dieback, and off-season defoliation. An emergency tree service may remove infested branches to eliminate pests and help the tree recover. However, more severe infestations may necessitate tree removal.

If you notice signs of serious tree problems, contact H & H Tree Service promptly. They provide emergency tree services, including trimming and removal, to clients throughout New London, NC. Call (704) 463-0353 to request a free estimate, and visit the website to learn more about how they can keep your outdoor areas healthy, safe, and beautiful.