There are many circumstances in which a tree must fall. However, proper maintenance can extend the life of your beloved shade maker.
Here is a list of what to look for in New York to help you maintain a tree-related emergency.
Check the tree roots
If tree roots threaten the structure of your home, you should contact a certified arborist and provide advice on the best way to prune the roots without harming the tree’s health. Tree roots are powerful enough to pierce the foundation of a house and destroy it. A rough rule of thumb for measuring the length of a tree’s roots is called a growth line. If the branches of a tree can reach the roof or walls of a building, so can the roots.
Then check the roots for signs of rot.
Some signs include:
✓ Canopy thins as trees gradually die
✓ Branch will die
✓ Withered leaves
✓ Slowing growth
✓ Ulcers or depressions on the stem indicate that root rotting fungi are making their way through the tree.
✓ Mushrooms around tree trunks, root flares or drips, especially armillaria
Even if you see green leaves on the branches, the tree will not live long if the roots are rotten. A tree’s roots provide structural support, and once weakened, it is only a matter of time before the tree topples. Ask a reputable tree management company to prune your tree to prevent it from falling in the wrong direction at the wrong time.
Even if there is no rot, mold can develop. If you see mushrooms still growing at the base of your tree, you may be experiencing root disease. While this is not a sure sign, you should have your tree inspected by a certified arborist. If it is determined that the roots of the tree are indeed diseased, the tree must be removed.
Look for other signs of disease
Trees with lots of discolored leaves, odd lumps on the bark, and early defoliation can cause tree disease. Trees do not have strong roots, so they fall much more easily when sick. The tree must be felled immediately to close the possibility.
Scan the tree for dead branches
A large dead branch on a tree poses a great danger. Strong winds can collapse buildings and damage everything in their path cars, bicycles, fences, sheds, houses. Annual inspection and trimming, especially weight reduction, can help prevent severe storm damage by making trees stronger.
Look at the weird tilt
A leaning tree is not dangerous if the tree is facing its natural direction. However, if you notice that your tree is leaning in a new direction, or that the tree that was originally leaning is now leaning more, you may need to contact a professional to evaluate whether the tree needs to be removed. In general, trees that lean 15% from vertical should be removed.
When you tap on the trunk, you hear a hollow sound
A safe way to check for hollow sounds is to use the back of a sounding hammer or axe. Incremental bores also work. Tree trunks may become hollow, even if no adverse effects are seen on the tree. The outside of the tree lives longer than the inside. However, a hollow trunk means the tree is prone to breakage. If you have concerns about your hollow tree, contact a certified arborist to inspect your tree.
Check how close the branch is to the power line
There should be some space between trees and nearby wires. In wet weather, electricity can travel up to 10 feet away to connect to wet leaves. Have a professional check the distance between trees and power lines to make sure your family and property are not at risk.
Post-storm damage assessment
A strong wind may not blow a tree over, but a standing tree may become weak and break. If a major storm hits your area, check the trees in your yard for signs of damage, such as bent or hanging branches. If the ground is heavily branched, it’s a good idea to have a tree care professional make sure the tree is strong enough to withstand future storms. A medium to large tree losing living branches is a sign that the tree is sick and may die.
When in doubt, contact a tree care professional to assess the tree’s health.
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