When It Is Right Time To Remove A Tree?

When a tree develops problems, it is frequently difficult to decide when to remove it. Many factors such as the cost of tree work and even sometimes emotional ties to the tree can come into play. Dying trees that are located in natural areas and do not pose a danger to property and people can be allowed to die in place without human intervention.

Dead trees serve as places for various species of woodpeckers and other wildlife to find food and a place to nest. But hazardous trees that have structural defects that could potentially cause injury to people or damage property need immediate attention.

They should be evaluated by a certified arborist. This is particularly true for ash trees that have been killed by emerald ash borer. Their wood becomes very brittle due to borer feeding damage and limb breakage is a major concern. Removing these trees can be tricky, even for experienced tree professionals.

In this situation, we recommend contacting a professional to have dead ash trees removed as soon as possible. Most tree pruning and removal jobs are unsafe for the average do-it-yourselfer. Hire a professional tree removal Sydney experts to cut your trees.

A professional holds a “Tree Expert” license, required by the State of MD. Search the MD Department of Natural Resources website for licensed tree care professionals. Also, many tree care companies hire “certified arborists”.

This is a highly regarded credential in the tree care industry. Certified arborists are individuals who have passed a comprehensive examination developed by some of the nation’s leading experts on tree care. The certification program is administered by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). Certified arborists are knowledgeable in all aspects of tree care and should be consulted when evaluating the health of a tree and for insect and disease management.

What is the history of the tree?

Some previous pruning jobs can cause problems years later. A situation that follows the old, outdated, practice of “topping” trees is breakage of the regrowth. A change in the soil level over the root system is another cause of a gradual decline of trees. If three inches or more of soil has been piled over the root system of the tree, it will probably die. If caught early before stress symptoms develop many trees can be saved.

What is the environment in which the tree lives?

Another important factor in trees' possible need for removal is its environment. Trees growing on rock ledges or near a body of water frequently have shallow root systems. The removal of nearby trees is a common problem after new construction. Trees that are suddenly exposed to sunlight are severely stressed by the sudden change in exposure.

Unfortunately, trees that are spared from removal during construction often die 3-5 years later. They succumb to soil compaction, grade changes and the sudden exposure to full sun after being grown in a forest.

How much space is available for tree growth?

Trees in the forest grow very well close together; therefore planting shade trees in groves replicating nature is fine. In such sites, they will grow together as in nature to become one large mass. When it comes to your house, it is best not to have trees hanging over the roof. Generally, large trees should be at least 20 feet from your house. On the other hand, small trees, such as dogwood, may be planted as close as 6 feet from the house.

Finally, some other considerations that can help you decide on the removal of a tree include:

1. Are there other nearby trees whose growth will be enhanced if the tree is removed?

2. Is the location of the tree such that it interferes with sightlines in traffic flow, stoplights, etc.?