Trees add beauty and value to your property. If they’re planted strategically, they can even lower your energy bills. However, trees that are damaged, sick, or even leaning too far can be dangerous. Here are ways to care for trees to prevent the sometimes-great costs of liability and property damage.
Remove Fallen Branches
Broken branches that hang precariously from your tree aren’t the only hazards. Branches that have already fallen can also be problematic. They’re unsightly, invite pests, and can rot where they lie. Before removal, check to see that the branches haven’t fallen on and brought down power lines. If they have, let a professional arborist remove them. If the branches are clear of power lines and are accessible, you can remove smaller limbs and leaves. Let professionals take away larger limbs that may be too heavy for you to handle.
Prune the Tree
Pruning your tree removes dead branches, injured branches and branches that cross and rub against each other. This rubbing can cause wounds that invite pests and diseases. Pruning also improves the air circulation within the tree. It allows sunlight to penetrate and supports the tree’s structure and balance. Again, leave pruning to the professionals if you’re uncertain about your skills or if the branches are high up or very large.
Add Bracing and Cabling
A tree that’s been damaged by the weather doesn’t always have to be taken down. Arborists know how to brace and cable a tree to support it. This technique uses steel braces and cables to preserve a tree that has weak areas but is otherwise healthy. A cable and brace system can support a tree for decades.
Take Trees Down
Unfortunately, there may be times when the tree needs to be taken down. A tree that’s leaning more than 15 degrees has a fairly high chance of toppling over. When it does fall, it can land on a structure or on a living being. You should also have dead trees removed. Though a dead tree can stand for years, you can’t predict when it will fall.
Other reasons to remove a tree include:
- The tree is sick and can’t be helped
- The tree was too storm damaged
- The tree has grown too big and too close to property and power lines
- The tree has irreparable cavities or cracks that weaken it
Give Our Arborists a Call for Tree Care
A heavy branch or an entire tree that falls can cause untold, costly damage. If there’s a dangerous tree on your residential or commercial property that needs help, call Image Tree Pros of Santa Rosa, CA right away.