Is that leaning tree in your yard cause for concern? What might seem like a harmless quirk at first could spell trouble if the tree reaches its tipping point.
As a trusted provider of tree services in East Lake, FL, we at Arborist Aboard help many people keep their yards safe and beautiful – even with leaning trees. Keep reading to learn more.
Is the Tree Lean Gradual?
Did the specimen just naturally grow at a slight angle? Plants will always seek out sunlight by stretching in ways that might seem unusual but are perfectly normal. Shady areas or crowded spaces can cause this skewed trajectory.
Does the tree look healthy? If it leans no more than 15 degrees and the surrounding ground seems stable, you probably have nothing to worry about.
What Causes Tree Stability Issues?
Never ignore a sudden change in your tree’s orientation. The tree might have trouble brewing underneath, such as:
- Root rot: Fungal infections, pest damage, or lack of oxygen in the soil may weaken a root system, compromising its grip. “Girdling” growth is when roots wrap around the trunk, which can also cause rot over time.
- Poor ground conditions: Wet, soft soil makes it hard for roots to anchor themselves. The opposite end of the spectrum is no better, either. Bone-dry soil can become too brittle to hold up the tree securely.
- Severe weather events: Keep an eye on the forecast. Strong winds and rain can easily tip a tree that’s already struggling and shift the surrounding ground.
Fixing Leaning Trees
Is the tree still fairly young and supple? It’s often possible to save it as long as the roots are healthy. Here are a few techniques your arborist might use:
- Leaning tree support: Cables and braces stabilize the tree and correct its posture. Top-heavy specimens also benefit from strategic pruning.
- Root treatment: Deep root fertilization strengthens the roots and encourages healthy growth. Even simpler steps like long, consistent watering sessions train the roots to grow deeper and stronger.
- Soil improvement: Does your area have clay-heavy soil? Aerating the ground, amending it with compost, or installing drainage can make a big difference.
Bring in a specialist to see whether this is a viable option for your tree. An arborist will assess the specimen’s health, weigh the tree-leaning risks, and suggest the best approach.
Tree Removal Is Sometimes Your Best Option
Which cases require a full removal to prevent potential tree-tilting problems?
Property Damage
Does the specimen grow precariously close to your house? All it takes is one strong storm to bring it crashing down. The cost of potential repairs usually outweighs the value of keeping your tree.
Bodily Injuries
When a tree falls unexpectedly, it can hurt people or pets and destroy vehicles and buildings. Even smaller branches may cause severe injuries during a collapse. Think about safety first, especially if the area under the leaning tree handles a lot of traffic.
Irreversible Damage
Did the tree suddenly increase its angle after a storm? There comes a point when specimens can no longer recover. Watch out for red flags like:
- Large cracks or splits in the trunk
- Significant root upheaval or exposure
- Fungi growing at the base of the tree
- Branch dieback
- Sudden loss of foliage or wilting leaves
Dependable Tree Leaning Solutions in East Lake, FL
What should you do about your leaning tree? Leave it to Arborist Aboard’s proficient crew to take care of the following:
- Assess the tree’s condition.
- Determine the cause of the lean.
- Provide expert recommendations to stabilize the specimen.
We can offer tree-leaning prevention work or handle tree removal safely. Get in touch at (813) 920-4410. Our blog covers tree issues, hiring a tree service, and much more.
