When to Remove a Tree: Warning Signs Every Homeowner Should Know

Obvious Signs Your Tree Needs Removal

Some situations clearly indicate a tree should be removed:

1. The Tree is Dead or Dying

A dead tree is a hazard waiting to happen. Signs of a dead tree include:

• No leaves in spring or summer (for deciduous trees)
• Brittle, easily breaking branches
• Bark falling off in large sheets
• Mushrooms or fungus growing at the base or on the trunk
• No green layer under the bark when scratched

2. Significant Structural Problems

Trees with major structural issues pose serious risks:

• Severe lean – A tree that has suddenly started leaning, especially after a storm
• Split trunk – A trunk that has split or has large cracks
• Major root damage – Visible root decay, lifting, or damage from construction
• Large cavities – Hollow sections in the trunk compromising structural integrity

3. Disease or Pest Infestation

Some diseases and pests can make removal necessary:

• Widespread decay that cannot be treated
• Bark beetle infestation in pines (common in Colorado)
• Emerald ash borer damage in ash trees
• Disease that poses risk of spreading to other trees

Less Obvious Signs to Watch For

Dropping Large Branches

If your tree regularly drops large branches, especially without storms, it may indicate internal decay or disease. This "self-pruning" behavior is the tree shedding parts it can no longer support.

Root Problems

Root issues can be harder to spot but are equally dangerous:

• Mushrooms growing near the tree base
• Soil heaving on one side of the tree
• Visible root decay
• Recent construction damage to root zone

Location Concerns

Sometimes a healthy tree still needs removal due to its location:

• Growing into power lines
• Roots damaging foundation, driveway, or sewer lines
• Too close to structures for safe growth
• Blocking essential sunlight from your home

When to Get a Professional Assessment

If you're unsure whether your tree needs removal, a professional assessment can help. Arborists look for signs homeowners might miss and can often recommend alternatives like pruning or treatment when removal isn't necessary.

Get a professional assessment if you notice:

• Any sudden changes in your tree's appearance
• Large dead branches in the canopy
• Fungal growth on or near the tree
• Cracks or splits in the trunk
• The tree leaning more than usual

Douglas County Tree Removal Considerations

In Douglas County, Colorado, our trees face specific challenges:

• Drought stress – Extended dry periods can weaken trees
• Bark beetles – Pine beetles are a significant threat to ponderosa and other pines
• Storm damage – High winds and heavy snow can damage even healthy trees
• Fire mitigation – Trees too close to homes may need removal for fire safety

Next Steps

If you've identified warning signs in one of your trees, don't wait for it to become an emergency. Contact a tree service professional for an assessment. They can confirm whether removal is necessary and provide a safe, professional solution.