When is the Right Time to Remove a Tree?

Trees are not only beautiful but also provide various benefits to our environment. They can clean the air, provide shade, and add aesthetic value to your property. However, there are times when a tree must be removed for various reasons. With several seasons of drought over the past decade, an increase in invasive insects, and typical environmental challenges, signs indicate it’s time to remove a tree. In this article, we’ll discuss six signs to look out for and why hiring a professional tree company is crucial to remove your tree. 

The Tree is Diseased or Dying 

One of the most obvious signs that a tree needs to be removed is if it’s diseased or dying. Diseases like Beech leaf disease, Dutch elm disease, and needle blight are prevalent in Connecticut and can cause a tree to weaken and eventually die. If you notice the leaves on your tree turning brown or falling off prematurely, it’s a sign that the tree may be struggling. A professional tree company can help you identify the disease and remove the tree before it becomes a hazard. 

The Tree is Leaning 

If a tree is leaning, it’s a sign that it may be unstable and could uproot under the right conditions. In Connecticut, where we experience strong winds and heavy snowfall, a leaning tree can be dangerous to people and property. If your tree is leaning, you should call a professional company immediately. They can assess the situation and determine whether it is a hazard and needs to be removed. 

The Tree is Damaged 

Damage to a tree can occur for various reasons, including storm damage, construction work, vehicle impact, and temperature fluctuations. If you notice that your tree has large cracks or splits in its trunk or branches, it’s a sign that it’s damaged and may need attention. A damaged tree can be a safety hazard, especially during storms or high winds. A professional tree company can assess the damage and determine whether the tree needs to be removed or if it can be saved. 

It’s Leafless. 

A chainsaw may be necessary if a backyard tree no longer produces large, beautiful leaves. These trees are unlikely to recover from pest damage, lightning, an unsuitable environment, or old age. Remove them instead of letting them fall. 

It’s Randomly Dropping Branches 

Mature trees often lose branches, especially after storms. However, consistent dead branches in the yard indicate a more significant issue. This is usually caused by pests or diseases, making a yard tree dangerous. 

The Tree is Growing Too Close to Your Home 

Trees that grow too close to your home, garage, or other structures can be a safety hazard. Ideally, as homeowners, we have the foresight to plant trees that will maintain an appropriate size for our landscape. 

That way, they will not become a hazard once they mature. However, many average DIYers need more information to make good selections for their landscape. As a result, healthy trees will grow too tall and close to homes, damaging them with roots or branches. Professional pruning may fix this; however, sometimes, the tree will become too much of a liability and needs to be removed. 

Should You Remove a Tree or Hire a Pro? 

A professional arborist will evaluate your tree and give you an estimate. 

If you must climb a ladder with heavy tools to remove large branches, tree removal can be dangerous. It’s easy to fall off the ladder, cut yourself, or be hit by tree parts as you cut them. DIY tree work injures or kills many people every year. DIY tree removal has other risks. 

A licensed, insured, and trained arborist is the best choice for tree removal.