Tree Images is an expert tree removal service company, so we often get asked by homeowners whether or not their tree needs to removed, and what to do if it does. People want to know which trees they should keep, which they should take out, and what to do with the ones that need to go.
A professor at the University of Maryland, Virginia Williams CPH, has created a set of 18 questions which are pertinent to a tree removal service. We think this is a helpful list to consider.
How to Tell if a Tree Should Be Removed
- Is it a desirable species?
It’s becoming more common for homeowners to remove trees that are invasive species or even just prone to problems down the road, rather than consistently putting effort into caring for and maintaining tree species that aren’t well suited to their area.
- How healthy is the tree?
Putting tons of effort into trying to save an unhealthy tree might not be worth it, whereas putting time, money, and energy into caring for and maintaining a happy, healthy tree is a great investment.
- Is there trunk damage?
Trees readily and easily recover from damage to branches (even large ones), but trunk damage is another matter. A significant amount of trunk damage is a likely indicator that a tree isn’t going to make it, regardless of the effort put into saving it. Trunk damage should always be evaluated by a tree service expert for input on how extensive the damage is.
- Is the tree hollow?
A hollow tree is almost always a dead or dying tree. Once you’re aware that your tree is hollow, it’s already time to start planning the tree’s removal, and moving forward with removing the tree sooner, rather than later, is likely to save you headaches down the road.
- Are there large dead branches?
The presence of large, dead branches doesn’t always mean the tree has to go, but it’s definitely an indication that a closer look should be taken. One large, dead branch can (often) be safely removed, helping the tree return to optimum health, but several most likely indicate a larger problem. Definitely call in a tree service expert for this problem.
- Are all of the dead branches on only one side of the tree?
If one side of the tree is home to many dead branches or weak or missing foliage, it’s an indicator that the tree has systemic problems that are probably beyond treatment. This is an indication that a tree is extremely sick or dying, and you should call in your local arborist for advice on how to remove the tree safely before the disease or infestation can spread to nearby trees.
- Are there sprouts coming from the base of the tree or epicormics shoots? (Epicormic shoots are small branches that come from the trunk.)
This is a sign of severe stress in the tree and should be evaluated by a tree expert before the problem can worsen. This doesn’t necessarily indicate a tree that needs to be removed, but it isn’t a good sign.
- Is there trunk rot?
A healthy tree doesn’t have trunk rot. If your tree has trunk rot, it is already dead or dying, and should be removed as soon as possible. A tree with trunk rot is a serious hazard, as it can collapse without further warning.
- Is there a large fungus growing near the base of the tree?
Not all mushrooms and fungi growing on or around a tree are signs of serious issues, but they can be. Any significant growth of fungi should all be evaluated by an expert to be certain.
- Has there been excavation near the tree that is causing root damage?
Significant root damage (more than 50% of the root system) warrants removal of the tree. Root damage causes instability and long-term damage or death to the tree.
- Is the tree leaning?
A leaning tree requires an immediate evaluation by a tree expert. This constitutes an emergency and needs to be dealt with urgently (especially if it’s a new development). In some cases, leaning trees can be braced or cabled safely, but often a leaning tree is already dead or dying and cannot be saved.
- Is the tree under power lines?
Trees that are growing under or near power lines require specific care and maintenance, so that they can grow safely. Having a professional care for your power-line-adjacent trees is not optional – these trees need professional care in order to be safe.
- What is the history of the tree?
Knowing the stresses and conditions your tree has previously experienced can help your local arborist determine whether a tree is able to be saved, so always share any relevant details with your tree service professionals.
- What is the environment in which the tree lives?
Trees growing close to water, buildings, roads, power lines, etc., often face specific stresses that make it harder for them to survive and to be maintained properly.
- How much space is available for tree growth?
When there is a mismatch between the expected size of a mature tree and the space it has to develop in, it is usually a good idea to remove the tree early, because removing a smaller tree is less of a hassle than removing a larger tree.
- Are there other nearby trees whose growth will be enhanced if the tree is not there?
Sometimes it makes sense to remove a tree or two (or more) in an area in order to make room and resources available for other trees to flourish. If the decision is between removing a tree or two now, or potentially losing many trees later, it can be a better choice to remove them.
- Does the tree’s location make it interfere with sight lines in traffic flow or stop lights?
It’s especially important to consider not just the current size of the tree, but its expected growth. If a tree will grow to be a safety hazard for drivers or pedestrians, it may need to be removed.
- Does the tree have historic or sentimental value?
More effort will typically be made to save an historic, iconic, or sentimental tree than others.
This isn’t meant to be a comprehensive list of considerations, but it’s a great start when you’re trying to determine whether or not a tree should be kept or removed.
Need Help Determining If a Tree Should Be Removed?
Tree Images offers estimates throughout the Cincinnati area. Whether you think you might want to remove a tree, remove a stump, prepare your trees for the coming year, or simply trim back some branches, give us a call to set up an estimate. Our number is 513-528-4167. Or you can contact us with our contact form.
