Telltale Signs a Tree Is About to Fall and You Can Do About It

Trees are wonderful assets to have in your yard, providing shade, beauty, and improving air quality. However, when a tree grows old or experiences damage, it can become a danger to your home and property.

The last thing you want is for a tree to fall over and cause damage or injury. Thus, it is crucial to keep an eye out for signs that a tree is about to fall and to take action as soon as possible.cIn this post, we will discuss some telltale signs a tree is about to fall over and what you can do about it.

Leaning Tree

A leaning tree can be an early sign that it is about to fall over. If you notice that the tree is leaning more than it has before, it is time to act.

There are several factors that can lead to a leaning tree. These include, but are not limited to, soil erosion caused by poor drainage, wind damage from storms and high winds, root damage caused by construction, remodeling, or digging nearby, and insect infestations.

Furthermore, if you recently had your tree trimmed or cut down its size, it could be more prone to tipping over. It is important to watch for any changes in the tree’s posture and call an arborist if you notice it leaning more than usual.

Shallow Roots

A tree with shallow roots is more prone to falling over. It’s vital to assess the soil where the tree is planted to ensure it can support the tree’s weight. The roots of the tree should be at least as wide as the tree’s crown. If the roots are shallow, the tree is at greater risk of falling over during a storm or high winds. In such cases, removing the tree could be the best option to prevent any potential damages.

Cracking or Splitting Trunk

If you notice any cracks or splits in the trunk of the tree, it could be a sign that it is about to fall over. This can occur due to various factors, such as lightning strikes, storms, or age. A massive crack in the trunk could cause the tree to split in half and potentially cause damage to property or people around it. In such cases, it is crucial to call an arborist to inspect the tree and determine if there is a way to save it.

Cracking and splitting may not always be visual. If you hear any major cracking sounds coming from a tree, it is an indication that the tree may be close to toppling over. You should contact an arborist immediately and have them come out to inspect the tree. An experienced arborist can assess the damage and make recommendations for what needs to be done.

In some cases, they may recommend pruning the tree or cabling it, which involves attaching cables to parts of the trunk and limbs that are at risk of splitting. In more severe cases, large tree removal may be necessary for safety reasons.

Hollow Trunk

If a tree’s trunk is hollow, this indicates that the tree is rotting from the inside. A tree with a hollow trunk is weaker than a healthy tree and is more susceptible to falling over, especially in high winds or bad weather. You should have the tree inspected by a professional arborist to determine if it is safe, and whether it needs to be removed or not.

Dead or Dying Branches

It is common for trees to have dead or dying branches. However, if you notice that more than 25% of the tree’s branches are dead or dying, it could be a red flag that the tree is sick or dying altogether. Dead or dying branches can fall anytime, causing damage to property or injury to anyone nearby. Removing all the dead or dying branches and providing some tree care can help prolong its life and reduce the risk of it falling over.

Tree care is important for overall tree health and reducing the risk of it falling over. Minor tasks you can do to help include pruning dead or dying branches, fertilizing and mulching around its base, aerating the soil if necessary, checking for insect infestations, and regularly inspecting your trees. By doing these simple steps, you can help your tree stay healthy and strong, making it less likely to fall over.

Fungi or Mushrooms Growing Near the Base of the Tree

Fungi or mushrooms growing at the base of a tree are a sure sign that the tree is in distress. Fungal infection can cause internal rot within the tree, weakening the trunk and branches. If the fungus has caused the tree to rot from the inside, it will become unstable and could fall without warning. In such cases, it is essential to call an arborist to evaluate the tree and take appropriate action.

When it comes to spotting fungi or mushrooms growing near the base of a tree, there are a few you should look for. Fungi such as Armillaria, which have white, fan-shaped caps and yellowish stems, can cause significant damage to trees. They tend to grow in circular patches around the trunk’s base and should be taken seriously.

Other fungi you should look out for are Ganoderma, which have reddish-brown caps and white pores on the underside, and Polyporus, which have a yellowish cap with small scales. If you notice any of these fungi growing near the base of your tree, it is best to call an arborist immediately and take action before it’s too late.

Trees are valuable assets to your home and property. However, ensuring they are safe is crucial for your family’s well-being and the safety of your home. Keeping an eye out for these telltale signs will help you identify when a tree is at risk of falling over and will help you take the necessary steps to keep it safe or remove it from your property. Remember to always call an arborist if you are uncertain about any signs or symptoms affecting your tree’s health. Your tree’s health is essential, and maintaining it can help keep your yard green and beautiful all year round.

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