Often in our blogs, we discuss the need for commercial properties to have comprehensive care. That is to say that no part of the landscape should be overlooked, and every piece must be properly maintained. Funny enough, one of the most commonly overlooked pieces of landscaping is typically the largest. Trees are essential to both environment and landscape, converting carbon dioxide into oxygen that they pump into both. These large pieces of plant material must be maintained, just like any other. However, sometimes their health can suffer for a variety of reasons, and they will need to be removed. Rather than wait until it falls onto your property, here are some signs you need tree removal.
Significant Trunk Lean
The most obvious example of a need for tree removal is if it begins to become a threat to guests of the property. While some lean of the trunk can be natural, anything over 15 percent in either direction is at least a cause for concern. This lean could be due to other tree health factors, or it could be the weather. In any case, any “new” lean should be of special concern, and likely means your tree needs removal before a strong storm knocks it over.
Severe Trunk Damage
Decay to the trunk of a tree can show up in many different ways, from open cavities to broken wood post-lighting strike. Large cracks are another prominent example, as is the irregular peeling of bark. While the root cause of this damage may not be external, these are certain indicators to have a tree care professional take a look at.
Decay Spreading Through Foliage
We will get to the causes of the decay later on in this blog, but for now, we are identifying the signs in plain view. Any disease, decay, or discoloration that attacks just a branch or two is not always a reason for alarm, but if this decay spreads throughout the branches of the tree, you might have a problem. This is usually an indicator that your tree has taken on a disease or pest, and if pruning cannot stop the spread, removal may be required.
Pest Infestation
Although a pest infestation may occur internally and cause some of the aforementioned signs, pests almost always cause external symptoms. If eggs or larvae are visibly present on the outside of the tree, this is an obvious sign. Leaf damage and tunneling through the tree are a couple of other easy examples, as are silk tents on top of branches. Please note that a pest infestation in and of itself is not a reason for tree removal, as it can possibly be treated. However, if the infestation is allowed to worsen it can lead to a need for removal.
Fungal Disease
Similar to pest infestation, it is also important to know the specific signs of a fungal disease. Just like pests, fungal diseases can be treated if caught early enough. The wilting and falling of leaves can be a symptom, just like scabs on the fruit of the tree, and depressions in the wood. Fungal disease can also stunt growth, so if you notice your tree becoming stagnant, it might be time to call ERG Services.
If you want your outdoor living experience to go well beyond the ordinary without even leaving your yard, we’re the landscape firm that can take you there. Environmental Resources Group has provided world-class commercial landscaping and grounds maintenance services for many businesses and institutions in the D.C. Metro Area. Give us a call today at (301) 570-3070.