Trees are often a welcome addition to any property, but age, disease, and severe weather conditions can cause them to fall, creating potentially dangerous and costly damages. In some cases, a tree falling may be unavoidable, while in others, proper tree care can help you spot potential problems early and prevent your tree from collapsing. Use the guide below for common indications your tree may be ready to fall. 

How Can You Tell if a Tree May Fall Soon?

1. Falling Branches

While dead branches on a tree don't always mean it's going to fall over, they can indicate that the tree is unhealthy. Occasionally, a tree will shed branches as a way of self-pruning if the tree is not receiving enough nutrients or water to sustain itself. It may also be a sign that the tree has a disease or an active infestation of burrowing insects.

When this happens, inspect your tree for signs of infestation, remove any dead branches to prevent them from collapsing on their own, and consider amending the soil to provide additional nourishment. 

2. Deep Cracks or Missing Bark 

Trees with deep cracks or missing bark patches, also known as cankers, are an indication that your tree is distressed or dying.

Both cracks and cankers can result in considerable weakness, leaving the tree vulnerable to collapse in weather conditions, such as snow, rain, or heavy winds. If the damages are caught early enough, professional tree care might help save the tree. In more severe circumstances, it may be safer to have it removed.

3. Rotten Roots

When a tree begins to die, its root system beneath the soil will begin to break down and decompose, weakening the tree itself. While it can be difficult to spot rotting roots that are covered in soil, there are ways to detect rot from the surface.

Look for mushrooms and other fungi growing around the base of the tree, or on the tree's trunk. Fungus growth is often a strong indication that the wood beneath has started to decay. It's often difficult to save a tree with root rot. If the root system has already become soft, it's likely too late to save the tree. If some of the tree's root system remains healthy, re-planting it in fresh soil with good drainage might bring it back.

If you have damaged or dying trees on your property, contact the tree care specialists at Rivertown Tree Service in Hastings, MN. For over 42 years, their team has provided high-quality tree services, including tree removal, stump grinding, land clearing, and tree maintenance. Call them today at (651) 438-3704 to request a quote, or visit their website to learn more about their extensive services.