Signs It's Time to Remove a Tree: Insights from Professional Arborists

In the world of tree care, arborists play a crucial role in ensuring the health and safety of our urban forests. These skilled professionals are trained in the art and science of tree care, and they are equipped with the knowledge and expertise to identify and address a wide range of tree problems. One of the key responsibilities of arborists is determining when it's time to remove a tree. In this article, we will explore the common signs of tree problems, the importance of identifying tree pests and diseases, and the dangers of DIY tree removal. We will also discuss the benefits of hiring a professional arborist for tree removal, factors to consider when choosing an arborist, and the process of tree removal. Finally, we will touch on tree care and maintenance after removal. So, let's dive in and learn more about the signs it's time to remove a tree.

The Role of Arborists in Tree Care

Before we delve into the signs that indicate a tree may need to be removed, let's take a moment to understand the important role that arborists play in tree care. Arborists, also known as tree surgeons or tree doctors, are highly trained professionals who specialize in the care and maintenance of trees. They have a deep understanding of tree biology, growth patterns, and the various factors that can affect tree health. Arborists are equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to diagnose and treat tree problems, and they are skilled in performing a wide range of tree care services.

Arborists are responsible for assessing the overall health and condition of trees, identifying potential issues, and implementing appropriate solutions. They can provide valuable insights into the needs of individual trees, including pruning requirements, fertilization schedules, and disease prevention strategies. Arborists also play a crucial role in tree preservation and conservation efforts, working to protect and maintain the urban canopy for future generations. By partnering with arborists, homeowners, property managers, and municipalities can ensure the long-term health and vitality of their trees.

Common Signs of Tree Problems

Trees are living organisms that can be affected by a variety of issues, ranging from environmental stressors to pests and diseases. Identifying the signs of tree problems is essential for maintaining the health and safety of your trees. Here are some common signs that may indicate a tree is in distress:

• Leaf Discoloration and Abnormal Growth Patterns

• Dead or Dying Branches

• Bark Damage and Decay

• Tree Pests

• Tree Diseases

When Tree Removal Is Necessary

While arborists strive to preserve trees whenever possible, there are circumstances when tree removal is the only viable option. Here are some situations where tree removal may be necessary:

Structural Instability

If a tree is structurally compromised and poses a significant risk to people or property, it may need to be removed. Signs of structural instability include large cavities or hollow areas in the trunk, extensive decay, or leaning at an angle greater than 15 degrees. In such cases, the tree may be at risk of falling during storms or high winds, posing a danger to nearby structures or individuals.

Severe Disease or Pest Infestation

In some cases, tree diseases or pest infestations can be so severe that they cannot be effectively treated, and the tree's overall health and vitality are compromised. If an arborist determines that a tree is beyond saving and poses a risk of spreading pests or diseases to nearby trees, removal may be necessary to protect the rest of the landscape.

Obstruction or Interference

Trees that obstruct power lines, impede construction projects, or interfere with the growth of other desirable trees may need to be removed. In urban environments, trees must coexist with other infrastructure and landscape elements. If a tree is causing significant interference or poses a safety risk, removal may be the most practical solution.

It's important to consult with a professional arborist to assess the specific circumstances and determine whether tree removal is the best course of action.

Call an arborist who will provide high-quality tree removal services.

Crepe Myrtle Bark Scale

A new scale pest that lingers on crepe myrtle trees has been found in the southeastern US threatening their appearance and life span. This pest is spreading fast, leaving behind extensive honeydew deposits and black sooty mold.

Symptoms of crape myrtle bark scale:

• Black sooty mold

• Reduced foliage growth

• Honeydew secretions

• White/gray felt-like substances on trunk or branches

How do I get rid of crape myrtle bark scale?

Before treating your crape myrtle diseases, its important to have an examination by a certified arborist to confirm what exactly (if anything) is needed. Our technicians will apply a pesticide in the spring right as the new growth develops on the tree to attain the best results.

Can I prevent crape myrtle bark scale?

Unfortunately there is currently no preventative measure to avoid this particular scale. However, keeping your trees regularly maintained and in good health can naturally deter them. Pests and diseases are most likely to invade a sick/unhealthy tree.

Click the link below to be connected with an ISA certified arborist now!

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Why Are My Trees Losing Leaves Already?

Fall is right around the corner and everyone is getting ready to watch the trees display their beautiful colors before going dormant for winter.

“But what if my trees are already losing their leaves before fall”?

Trees dropping leaves during summer can be caused by a variety of factors. It is always best to have your trees evaluated by an ISA certified arborist if your trees look unhealthy. However, we have listed a few factors that could play a part in premature leaf drop.

Drought stress

Georgia summers can be rough on your trees, especially newly planted trees or ones that are already suffering from another health issue. Making sure they are on a proper watering schedule (early morning) during those times of high temperatures and little rain can help them recover faster.

Pests/disease

Summertime creates the perfect breeding ground for pests and disease of all shapes and sizes to enter and take over. If you suspect your trees have fallen victim to pests and disease, it is important to call an arborist right away for a tree inspection to prevent further spread.

Crowded canopy

Regular maintenance tree pruning is imperative for your trees. It improves their overall aesthetics as well as clears out the canopy of dead limbs and overcrowded foliage. Sometimes trees can grow more leaves than they can support so leaf drop will occur in order to protect them from hot, dry weather.

If you still have questions about your trees health, click the link below to be connected with an ISA certified arborist today!

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Oak Leaf Miners - Identify & Control

What’s wrong with my oak tree leaves?

Over the past few dry, hot months we have received numerous phone calls about discolorations on Oak tree leaves. Upon further inspection by our certified arborists, oak leaf miners are to blame.

What is a leaf miner?

A leaf miner is an insect, about a quarter inch long, that lives in and eats the tissue of plants. They often leave behind a squiggly trail or big, discolored blotches. A certified arborist can determine the exact tree pest with a tree care inspection.

Can leaf miners damage my trees?

Fortunately, most leaf miner damage is purely cosmetic and is seldom a concern of the overall health of your trees. Leaf drop and defoliation is common, but not threatening. All the leaves on your oak trees will come back next spring with new growth.

How can I get rid of leaf miners?

While there are certain pesticides our tree care experts can apply in large infestation cases, the best practice for getting rid of oak leaf miners is simply raking up and destroying the damaged and dead leaves from around the base of your trees. This can prevent the infestation from spreading to other trees in the area.

If you have any questions or concerns about your trees, click the link below to be connected with one of our ISA certified arborists today!

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Why Are There Tree Shoots All Over My Lawn?

Have you noticed a large amount of tree shoots and sprouts all over your lawn? There are a number of reasons this could be happening. While some trees are notorious for this, others might be under stress and it is best to have an ISA certified arborist come out to take a look and identify the issue.

What types of trees cause shoots to show up in my lawn?

The most common types of trees known to generate sprouts are ash & honey locust trees. Ash trees will generate shoots in your lawn when infested with the emerald ash borer while the honey locust is notorious for growing suckers.

How can I prevent tree suckers and sprouts on my lawn?

Since this usually happens when the tree is under stress and essentially trying to re-generate itself, the best practice would be having an ISA certified arborist or tree care professional come out to assess the health of your trees first. Alternatively, though it can be time consuming, you can manually remove the sprouts by using hand pruners. There are also sucker stopper products at most home improvement stores, however these can be very dangerous if used improperly and risk damaging your trees.

Before planting trees its best to consult with an arborist to identify low maintenance trees so you don’t run into this issue when it comes to the specimen. Getting your trees on a proper pruning maintenance plan ensures their health for years to come and can eliminate the risk of shoots in your lawn. If you have questions about your trees health, or any other concerns about tree care, click the link below to be connected with one of our arborists now!

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