Sometimes modern life just sets you up to think that nothing changes, but we all know tax season is right around the corner and now we’re buying last minute Christmas presents for the relatives that we do truly care about (just forgot it’s okay). This is normal but those trees that provide that nice wonderful shade above our homes might be that next thing that we really should be watching the time for. These trees are beautiful tall majestic beings but when they don’t get a groom, they might show that through dropping a nice large dead heavy tree branch on that brand new redone roof.
That is not fun, so before it turns into a chore, why not take a quick look at the health of those tree branches. Here’s 5 signs maybe its time your tree friends get a haircut.
1. Dead, Damaged, or Diseased Wood
This is the most urgent signal. Dead branches are brittle and can fall at any moment, posing a risk to your property and anyone walking below.
- How to spot it: Look for branches with no leaves (during the growing season), peeling bark, or fungal growth.
- The “Snap Test”: If a small twig snaps cleanly and looks brown inside, it’s dead. If it bends or shows green, it’s still kicking.
2. Crossing and Rubbing Branches
When two branches grow in a way that they cross or rub against each other, it’s a recipe for disaster. The constant friction wears away the bark, creating an open wound.
Pro Tip: Think of bark like human skin. Once it’s rubbed raw, it becomes an “open door” for pests and diseases to enter the tree’s system.
3. The “Lion’s Tail” or Overly Dense Canopy
If you can’t see any sunlight filtering through the center of your tree, it’s likely too thick. Air and light need to reach the inner branches to keep the whole tree healthy.
- The Risk: A dense canopy acts like a sail in the wind. Without proper airflow, a heavy storm is much more likely to topple the entire tree or tear off major limbs.
4. Growth Toward Power Lines or Structures
Trees don’t have a sense of personal space. If you notice branches creeping toward your chimney, resting on your shingles, or—most dangerously—tangling with power lines, it’s time to act.
- Structure Damage: Branches rubbing against your house can strip granules off shingles or damage siding.
- Safety First: Never attempt to prune branches near power lines yourself. Always call your local utility company or a certified arborist.
5. Wayward Growth and “Suckers”
Sometimes trees grow in ways that defy their natural shape. You might see:
- V-Shaped Crothes: Two main trunks competing for dominance (this is a structural weakness).
- Suckers: Spindly little shoots growing from the base of the trunk or the roots. These steal nutrients from the main tree and should be nipped in the bud.
When to Call a Pro vs. DIY
If you can reach the branches from the ground with hand pruners, a little DIY maintenance is fine. However, if you need a ladder, a chainsaw, or if the branches are over 2 inches in diameter, call an arborist. It’s cheaper to pay for a professional trim than it is to pay for a roof repair, or a trip to the ER!
