How to Deal with a Leaning Tree on Your Property: Tips from a Tree Care Company in Wilmette, Illinois
A leaning tree in your yard is not always dangerous. In many situations, it is just how the tree is naturally growing. But in other situations, that lean can be a sign that the tree is unstable and could eventually fall. As a property owner, it’s important to know which is which.
Below, this tree care company in Wilmette, Illinois is going to explain why trees lean, and when they become a problem.
Why do trees lean?
Not every leaning tree on your property is a problem. Some trees simply grow toward the sun, and this natural growth response is called phototropism. You will usually see this kind of leaning in younger trees, and in most cases, it is harmless.
But there are also times when a leaning tree can be bad. For example, weak or damaged roots caused by disease, soggy soil, or root loss can make a tree unstable. Strong winds, soil erosion around the base, or even planting the tree too deep can make the leaning worse over time.
When does a leaning tree become dangerous?
A leaning tree becomes dangerous when the leaning is new or when you see other warning signs. These signs can look like cracks in the trunk, soil lifting at the base of the tree, or roots sticking out of the ground.
And if the lean is more than about 10 degrees off vertical, the risk of the tree falling increases dramatically. That is the point when calling a professional tree care company in Wilmette, Illinois is usually the safer choice than trying to straighten the tree yourself.
Straightening young or recently planted trees.
Young trees tend to be easier to deal with because they have not fully settled into the ground yet. Staking is a good option for a young leaning tree, though it is not always necessary. And if you do use stakes, be sure to remove them after a growing season so the tree learns to support itself and grow stronger naturally.
Soil and moisture are just as important. A wide layer of mulch spread around the tree (but not piled up against the trunk) can protect the roots and keep the soil moist.
Keeping the soil evenly moist also encourages stronger growth. And if the soil around the root ball is too loose and that is what has caused the lean, carefully packing the soil back and watering deeply can usually solve the problem.
Mature trees need professional attention.
Large, fully grown trees with a noticeable lean are a completely different situation compared to younger trees. A big tree that is leaning a lot can point to serious structural problems.
Sometimes, a certified arborist can reduce the risk by pruning the branches or installing cables or braces. These methods will not make the tree invincible, but they can give it more stability and help it last longer if implemented properly.
But if the tree is leaning more than about 30 degrees or you notice serious decay in the trunk or roots, removal may be the safest option. That is when you’ll want someone with experience. A professional tree care company in Wilmette, Illinois can inspect the tree and tell you if it can be stabilized, or if it’s better to remove it before it causes damage.
What will a tree care company do?
Step 1 is always a thorough inspection of the tree. A certified arborist will check the roots, trunk, and branches for decay, cracks, soil movement, or other signs of weakness you might not notice.
After the inspection, they may recommend pruning to reduce stress, installing supports like cables, or even full removal if the tree is too risky. No tree will ever be 100% risk-free, but a professional can look at all the options and help you make the safest choice.
Looking for a tree care company in Wilmette, Illinois?
Are you worried about a leaning tree on your property? If so, and if you’re ready to have it inspected by the best tree care company in Wilmette, Illinois, look no further than Brown Tree Service, Inc. Our team of ISA Certified Arborists can handle everything from straightening young trees to removing large ones. Contact us today to get started.
