This blog will walk you through each of the signs our team uses to determine the best course of action for your entire landscape.
For a lot of Maryland homeowners, trees are a lot more than just an aspect of their landscape, they’re investments that provide privacy, shade, and curb appeal. When a tree starts to look off, perhaps dropping leaves early or showing bare branches is a concern. Knowing how to tell if a tree needs to get removed or just pruned could save you thousands of dollars and also preserve the beauty of your property. At Harford Tree, our first goal is always to save the tree whenever it’s possible. However, there’s a fine line between a tree that requires a haircut and one that has plenty of structural liability. This blog will walk you through each of the signs our team uses to determine the best course of action for your entire landscape. Read on to learn more!
The 50% Rule for Canopy Coverage
One of the most visual ways to start your assessment is by looking at the tree’s canopy. A healthy tree should have a vibrant and full crown. If less than 25% of the branches are dead or bare, a thorough “deadwooding” and structural pruning could usually revitalize the tree. Removing these dead limbs prevents rot from ever spreading and allows a tree to focus all its energy on healthy growth. If more than 50% of the tree is showing dieback, the tree could be in a state of decline. In these cases, the root system is usually too damaged to sustain the organism. Knowing how to tell if a tree needs to get removed or just pruned usually comes down to this biological math. If the tree can not produce enough energy to heal itself, removal is the best path.
Cavities and Trunk Integrity
The trunk is the main backbone of the tree. While trees could live for years with small trunk damage, certain signs indicate a complete failure of the internal “plumbing.” Small cavities or localized bark damage could usually be managed. If the damage is only on one side and the wood feels solid while tapped, we can prune back heavy branches to help reduce the weight on the trunk. Big, deep holes or “cavities” in the trunk suggest internal rot. If you notice vertical cracks that go deep in the wood, or if the bark is falling off in big chunks around the whole circumference, the tree’s structural integrity is then compromised. This is an indicator that you could require emergency tree service before the next storm happens.
Tree Care and Maintenance from Harford Tree
Ready to have the beautiful yard you have always dreamed of? Harford Tree Experts & Landscaping, Inc has been in the business for decades, providing customers with quality work and quick responses all at the right price. We service the areas of Harford County, Baltimore County, and Baltimore City areas including Bel Air, Fallston, Perry Hall, Towson, Essex, Parkville, White Marsh and Middle River.
For service during business hours, reach out to us or give us a call at 410-592-7321. We offer 24/7 emergency service as well, just give us a call at 443-250-6649. For updates about our business and more informative tips, follow us on Facebook and Twitter.