You’ve recently noticed that the outstretched limbs of your favorite mature oak or magnolia look suspiciously bare. In fact, upon closer inspection, you see fungal growth flourishing at the trunk’s base. Is it time for a backyard tree removal? 

Southern Tree Pros, a reputable tree removal company in Alpharetta, Georgia, offers guidance on the next steps for your struggling tree. 

Assess the Tree’s Risks Before Removing the Tree

A skilled arborist can often rescue diseased or wounded trees, provided that they are still alive. First, a professional hazard assessment takes place to determine whether your tree can survive with proper care. From there, your arborist might recommend tree care services, such as:

  • Reinforcement through cabling and bracing
  • Eliminating dead, diseased, or injured wood while leaving everything else intact
  • Administering pest control solutions
  • Fertilizing the tree with additional nutrients

If the tree is too far gone, removal is the logical choice.

Signs You Need Backyard Tree Removal in Alpharetta, Georgia

A trustworthy tree service like Southern Tree Pros will always treat tree felling or removal as a last resort. Care may not save the tree if the following issues apply:

The Wood Feels Dry and Brittle

Healthy, living wood is flexible. When you break a live, healthy limb, you’ll notice the wood looks green and feels moist to the touch. Dead wood easily snaps off and feels dusty and dry between the fingers. 

You’ll find dead wood on all parts of the specimen if the tree is no longer alive, including the trunk, limbs, and roots.

You Notice Pervasive Signs of Pests or Disease

Removing bug-infested or diseased trees is responsible vegetation management. Is the infestation pervasive enough to kill a tree? Then, it can quickly spread. 

Act quickly if you notice the following symptoms:

  • Leaf discoloration throughout the crown
  • Numerous dead branches
  • Mushroom clusters on or near the tree
  • Decaying wood

An arborist will likely call for backyard tree removal for a substantial infestation. 

The Tree Threatens Buildings

Sometimes, you must remove otherwise healthy trees simply because of their proximity to essential structures. 

Site clearance varies. For example: 

  • A large tree growing less than 20 feet from a house could fall directly onto the roof in a storm.
  • Trees should be at least 30 feet away from nearby septic tanks.
  • Trees should be 50 feet away from power lines. 

Trees growing too close can threaten your personal well-being and property’s safety. 

You Find Evidence of Unhealed Wounds or Abnormalities

Trees are masters of self-preservation with numerous defenses enabling them to heal quickly when they can access ample water, nutrients, and sunlight. Weakened specimens struggle in comparison.

Say weather disturbances cause broken branches and uprooted trunks or blunt force from vehicles and machinery leave dents and open tree sores. If the tree is already in poor health, it won’t close these wounds well, leaving an open door for pests and diseases. 

The Tree Is Structurally Unsound

Many specimens will twist and turn to better access sunlight and other resources. They simply grow in obscure ways. If so, it may make the tree structurally unsound. 

Some examples of insecure tree structures include:

  • Twin trees growing from the same trunk base
  • Leaning trees
  • Trunks that jut out at sharp angles
  • Visible root systems

You should remove trees that show these attributes. The decision might protect your own and neighboring properties.

Southern Tree Pros Can Help With Tree Removal in Alpharetta, Georgia

Southern Tree Pros can tackle backyard tree removal and stump grinding services anywhere in Alpharetta, Georgia. Whether subsidence caused by trees or pervasive weather damage has led to instabilities, our tree experts have the skills, certifications, and equipment to manage the job. Call 770-841-1684 to schedule an evaluation!