A hazardous tree may possibly uproot and fall, damaging property or hurting people. Disease, infestations, and weather conditions can lead to a tree being labeled as dangerous. Here are some signs indicating that your tree is hazardous and requires a tree removal service to rectify the problem.

3 Ways to Tell If Your Tree Is Hazardous

1. Dead Wood

Look for bark that has fallen off and not grown back, as it’s an indication that the wood is dead. Trees naturally shed bark occasionally and replace it, but if it doesn’t grow back—and all that remains is smooth wood—then the tree is not healthy. Dead wood is a nesting ground for insects, which will kill the tree quicker, so it’s best to call a tree removal service immediately.

2. Tiny Holes

Small circular or oblong holes in the trunk are an indicator of tree borers, insects that infiltrate and eventually kill plant life. Most insects reside under the bark, lay eggs, and feed off the living plant fibers. For example, the black twig borer lays its eggs in the tree but doesn’t eat the plant tissue; however, it does spread fungal spores that can kill the tree at a later date.

3. Rapid Ohia Death

Rapid Ohia Death (ROD) is a disease caused by two fungal pathogens: Ceratocystis lukuohia and Ceratocystis huliohia. Although the former is the more aggressive of the two diseases, they both kill Ohia, Hawaii’s most abundant native tree. The fungus itself lives inside the tree, causing its crown to turn from green to yellow to brown in a matter of weeks. Entire branches of leaves will die simultaneously, and a dark stain forms along the outer margins of the trunks. If you believe your tree has ROD, call a tree removal service and report the tree to the Department of Agriculture.

If you're worried that a tree on your property may be hazardous, contact the experts at Ohana Tree Services in Mililani, HI. Serving Honolulu for over two decades, these professionals perform tree removal services, tree trimming, stump removal, and tree planting. Call (808) 520-0186 to request a free estimate or visit their website to learn more about their services.