Beautiful, leafy trees add ambiance, shade, and life to any landscape. However, a dead or dying tree is not just an eyesore, but it can also be a safety hazard. In these cases, professional tree removal is necessary to avoid costly property damage or injury. Here are a few signs that it might be time to cut down that weak tree in your yard.

When Should You Remove a Tree?

1. Hollow Trunk

Serious damage, such as losing a large limb or cutting a root, can expose a tree's interior to fungal infections. Over time, the fungus will eat away the healthy wood, leaving portions of the trunk hollow. Some large trees, like oaks, can develop cavities naturally as they store and dissolve minerals at the center of their trunks. While many trees can withstand small hollow spots in their trunks, large or multiple cavities can weaken its structural integrity. This can put it at risk of falling and causing property damage or injuries. Consider tree removal to avoid these hazards. 

2. Disease

Trees are susceptible to many diseases caused by fungal infections or insects. If left untreated, they can cause significant damage and put the tree at risk of falling. Signs of a diseased tree include an unusual lean, peeling bark, vertical cracks in the trunk, wilting or discolored leaves, stunted growth, and brittle or dead branches. If caught early enough, a specialist can help restore the tree to health by removing the diseased portions. However, if the disease has progressed beyond treatment, tree removal is the safest option. 

3. Root Rot

Unlike other tree diseases caused by insects or fungus, root rot occurs in poorly drained or overly wet soils. These conditions prevent the roots from absorbing oxygen, causing them to die and decay. The rot can easily spread to healthy roots, even infecting those in dry soil conditions. Dead roots cannot hold up a tree's weight, making it vulnerable to toppling over in a modest wind. 

Because the infection is underground, root rot can be difficult to identify. Look for signs such as poor growth, wilted or yellowed leaves, or an unusual number of dead branches. You can also carefully dig around the roots to check for damage. Disinfect any tools you use to avoid infecting other plants. A specialist might be able to save a tree by pruning infected roots, but in many cases, tree removal is the best option to prevent infection from spreading to healthy plants. 

If you are concerned about a tree on your residential or commercial property, contact the experts at Greatland Tree Service in Anchorage, AK. Their experienced specialists are licensed, bonded, and insured. To learn more about their tree removal, planting, landscaping, and other services, call them today at (907) 336-8733 or visit their website.