Recognising Hazardous Trees

Is That Tree Safe? Recognising Signs of Hazardous Trees

Our beautiful trees provide shade, shelter, and a vital connection to nature. But sometimes, a seemingly healthy tree can pose a hidden danger. As tree surgeons, we often see the consequences of neglected hazardous trees. That's why we want to empower you, our valued customers, to recognize potential problems before they escalate.

Why is Identifying Hazardous Trees Important?

A hazardous tree can cause significant damage to your property, pose a risk to your family and neighbours, and even lead to serious injury. Early detection allows for timely intervention, preventing costly repairs and ensuring everyone's safety.

Key Signs of a Hazardous Tree:

Here's a breakdown of what to look for:

1. Dead or Dying Branches (Dieback):

●     What to Look For: An abundance of dead twigs, branches, or large sections of the tree without leaves during the growing season.

●     Why it's a Problem: Dead branches are brittle and prone to breaking, especially during storms. Extensive dieback can indicate a larger health issue affecting the entire tree.

2. Trunk Damage:

●     What to Look For:

○     Cracks or splits in the trunk.

○     Hollow areas or cavities.

○     Fungal growth or conks (mushroom-like growths) on the trunk.

○     Leaning trunk (especially if it's a sudden change).

○     Peeling or missing bark.

●     Why it's a Problem: These signs can indicate internal decay, structural weakness, or disease, making the tree susceptible to collapse.

3. Root Problems:

●     What to Look For:

○     Visible root decay or rot.

○     Uprooted or broken roots.

○     Soil heaving or cracking around the base of the tree.

○     Fungal growth at the base of the tree.

●     Why it's a Problem: Healthy roots are essential for stability. Damaged or decayed roots compromise the tree's ability to anchor itself, increasing the risk of it falling.

4. Canopy Issues:

●     What to Look For:

○     An unbalanced or lopsided canopy.

○     Sudden leaf drop or discoloration.

○     Thinning foliage.

○     Hangers (broken or partially broken branches caught in the canopy).

●     Why it's a Problem: These issues can indicate stress, disease, or structural weakness within the tree's canopy.

5. Environmental Factors:

●     What to Consider:

○     Recent storms or high winds.

○     Construction or excavation near the tree's root system.

○     Changes in soil drainage or moisture.

○     Trees that have been struck by lightning.

●     Why it's a Problem: These factors can weaken trees and make them more vulnerable to damage.

What to Do If You Suspect a Hazardous Tree:

●     Don't attempt to handle it yourself. Hazardous tree work requires specialised equipment and expertise.

●     Contact a qualified and insured tree surgeon. We can conduct a thorough assessment and recommend the appropriate course of action, which may include pruning, bracing, or removal.

●     Prioritise safety. Keep people and pets away from the tree until it has been assessed.

Investing in Regular Tree Inspections:

Regular tree inspections by a professional are crucial for maintaining the health and safety of your trees. We recommend scheduling inspections annually, especially after severe weather events.

By being vigilant and working with qualified tree surgeons, you can ensure the beauty and safety of your trees for years to come.

Treefellas.

Call us on 0114 281 5150 or email us at [email protected] for a consultation.