If you have trees on your property, it’s important to keep an eye out for potential hazards. While trees provide us with a wide variety of benefits, they can also be quite dangerous. If they fall or if branches break they can cause serious harm and property damage. However, you can reduce these risks with the following Walla Walla tree care guide for spotting a hazardous tree.
Splits & Cracks
It’s normal for trees to have small to medium cracks in their bark due to their growth circumference each year. However, deeper cracks in the trunk of a tree can indicate a hazardous problem. Another hazardous indication is when a crack runs down the trunk of a tree and into the ground. That’s why it’s important to consult with the certified arborist at Westcoast Tree Care to inspect your tree if you see either of these kinds of cracks.
Deadwood
While it can often be difficult to determine if areas of a tree are dead, it’s important to look out for branches with little to no foliage. This is often the first sign of deadwood, and it should be removed immediately. Why? Deadwood can break off and fall unexpectedly, making it an extreme safety hazard to people and property located below.
Missing Bark
While it is completely natural for a tree to shed its old bark and replace it with new, it’s not normal for a tree to shed its bark and the underlying wood to remain exposed. This is a good indication of disease or insect infestation which can weaken a tree, making it a potential safety hazard.
Fungus
Fungi feeds off of dead or dying organisms. This is true of all living things, including trees. That’s why it’s important to keep an eye out for fungi on the bark of a tree or mushrooms and other fungal material growing at its base. This can be a good indication that a tree is dead or dying, making it extremely unpredictable.
Leaning
A leaning tree isn’t always a problem. However, if a tree develops a sudden lean accompanied by bulges in the soil, this could mean its structural integrity has become compromised making it unstable. If you are concerned about a sudden lean in a tree on your property, it’s important to contact the certified arborist at Westcoast Tree Care to have it inspected for any safety hazards.
Walla Walla Tree Care
If you have trees on your property that you suspect of being hazardous, it’s important to contact the certified arborist at Westcoast Tree Care to protect the safety of your home and loved ones. We would be more than happy to walk your property while answering any questions you may have and provide you with a no-cost, no-obligation quote for any of our Walla Walla tree care services. Fill out our online form or give us a call at 1.800.767.8733 today.
