How can I tell if a tree is at risk of falling?

Spotting the Signs of Risky Trees

Trees are a beautiful part of our landscape, providing shade, oxygen, and a sense of tranquility to Columbus. But just like any living thing, trees can face health problems and structural issues over time. When a tree starts to show signs of weakness, it may be at risk of falling, posing a serious threat to you, your property, and other plants nearby.

Knowing the signs of a potentially unstable tree is important for any homeowner or property manager. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the signs a tree at risk of falling, so you can keep your property safe and enjoy your trees for years to come.

Why Recognizing Tree Risk is Important

Having strong, healthy trees around your home is not only beautiful but also adds value to your property and helps the environment. However, trees that are weak or damaged can become serious hazards. If a tree falls, it can significantly damage buildings, cars, and landscaping, or even hurt people nearby.

In Columbus, where homes and buildings are close together, it’s especially important to check trees regularly. Some trees might look fine from a distance but have hidden problems that make them unstable. By learning to recognize the warning signs of an at-risk tree, you can take action early to prevent accidents. Whether it’s a small warning like dead branches or a big issue like a leaning trunk, knowing what to look for can help keep your property safer.

Signs That Your Tree Might Be at Risk of Falling

Spot the Signs Before Your Tree Has Fallen

Knowing the signs of a potentially dangerous tree can help you take action before any accidents happen. Watch for these signs to catch problems early and call in a professional arborist. Here are some common signs a tree may be at risk of falling:

Leaning or Tilted Trunk

A tree that leans or tilts significantly to one side may be unstable. While some trees naturally lean a little, a sudden tilt or an increasing lean can mean that the roots are no longer holding the tree securely. If you notice a tree leaning more than usual, especially after a storm, it’s a good idea to have it checked.

Dead or Dying Branches

Dead or broken branches are another warning sign that a tree is struggling. A few dead branches may not seem like a big deal, but they can indicate larger issues with the tree’s overall health. Dead or dying branches can lead to fallen limbs, especially during windy weather, making them a hazard for people, pets, and property below.

Cracks in the Trunk or Large Branches

Cracks can appear in the trunk or large branches as a tree ages or faces harsh weather. These cracks weaken the tree’s structure and increase the risk of it breaking or splitting during storms. If you notice deep or spreading cracks, the tree may not be able to support its own weight.

Damaged Roots

Roots are what keep a tree firmly anchored to the ground. If the roots are damaged—maybe from construction, landscaping, or natural decay—the tree loses stability. Look for exposed roots that seem soft, rotten, or damaged. A tree with root problems may start leaning or show signs of poor health, like leaves missing or dead branches.

Mushrooms and Other Fungi

Fungi, like mushrooms around the base of a tree, can be a sign of rot inside the trunk or roots. While not all fungi are harmful, some indicate that parts of the tree are decaying. If you see large clusters of mushrooms or other fungi, it may mean that the tree is weakening from the inside.

How Joseph Tree Can Help

When you reach out to Joseph Tree, we’ll assess your trees and discuss the best options to keep them safe and healthy. Here are a few ways we can help reduce the risk of falling trees:

Trimming and Pruning

Pruning is one of the simplest ways to improve a tree’s safety. By removing dead, diseased, or weak branches, we reduce the chance that these branches will break off and fall. Regular trimming also helps balance the tree’s weight, making it more stable overall. Our team is trained to identify which branches pose a risk and to remove them without harming the tree.

Cabling and Bracing

For trees with splits or heavy branches that might break under pressure, we use cabling and bracing. This process involves attaching strong cables or braces to support weaker parts of the tree. Cabling and bracing don’t hurt the tree; instead, they help it stay upright and steady. By providing this extra support, we can often save a tree that would otherwise be at risk of falling.

Disease and Pest Management

Sometimes, a tree’s health problems come from pests or diseases that weaken it over time. Our team can diagnose these issues and apply treatments to fight back against common tree threats, like fungi, insects, or bacterial infections. This preventive care strengthens the tree from the inside out, reducing its chance of falling.

Tree Removal

In some cases, a tree is too damaged or unstable to keep. If a tree is beyond saving, tree removal it is the safest option to protect people and property. While we always aim to preserve trees when possible, we’ll let you know if removal is the best choice and handle the process safely. Our team has the expertise to remove trees in a controlled way to minimize the impact on your landscape.

Our Tree Tips to Reduce Fall Risks

Proper tree care doesn’t just make your trees look better; it also strengthens them and reduces the risk of trees falling. Here are a few simple ways to keep your trees healthy and stable:

Regular Pruning

Pruning is one of the best ways to improve a tree’s health and stability. Removing dead or dying branches reduces strain on the tree and helps it stand strong during storms. We recommend pruning at least once a year, especially for large or older trees. This practice also improves air circulation and sunlight exposure, which helps the tree grow evenly.

Consistent Watering

Trees need water to thrive, especially during dry spells. Deep watering allows the roots to grow strong and secure, giving the tree a solid foundation. Aim to water slowly so the moisture reaches deep into the soil. During dry months, try watering your trees every couple of weeks to prevent stress.

Mulching Around the Base

Adding a layer of mulch around the base of your tree can help keep the soil moist and protect the roots. Mulch acts as a barrier against weeds and pests, and it also helps regulate soil temperature, keeping roots healthy through all seasons. Just make sure not to pile mulch directly against tree trunks—leave a few inches of space to prevent rot.

Protecting the Roots

Healthy roots are the key to a stable tree. Avoid digging or heavy construction work near the base of your trees, as this can damage their roots. When roots are damaged, the tree becomes less stable and more likely to lean or fall. If you’re planning any work around your trees, let us know—we can guide you on how to protect the root system.

Regular Inspections

Scheduling annual tree inspections with a certified arborist is one of the best ways to catch potential risks early. We can look for hidden signs of weakness or disease that might not be visible to the untrained eye. These routine check-ups help identify and solve small problems before they become bigger issues.

Contact Joseph Tree Today

Keep Your Trees Safe and Healthy in Columbus, Ohio

Keeping an eye on your trees and knowing the signs of risk can prevent accidents and protect your property. If you’ve noticed anything unusual about your trees, it’s better to be safe and reach out to a professional arborist. Our tree services cover everything from trimming to full tree removal. We can assess your trees and help you keep your Columbus property safe and beautiful.

Don’t wait until it’s too late—contact us today to schedule a tree inspection and let our arborists help you keep your property safe.