7 Signs Your Tree Needs to Be Removed

Trees add beauty, shade, and value to your property. But when a tree becomes a hazard, it can threaten your home, your family, and even your neighbors. Here are seven warning signs that a tree on your property may need to be removed.

1. Dead or Dying Branches

If more than 50% of a tree's branches are dead or dying, the tree is likely in serious decline. Dead branches are brittle and can fall without warning, posing a danger to people and property below. Look for branches without leaves (during growing season), peeling bark, or brittle wood that snaps easily.

2. Trunk Damage or Decay

The trunk is the tree's main support structure. Signs of trunk problems include:

• Large cracks or splits in the bark
• Cavities or hollow areas
• Soft, spongy wood (indicating internal decay)
• Fungal growth like mushrooms at the base
• Peeling bark that doesn't regenerate

A tree can look healthy on the outside while being completely rotten inside. If you suspect trunk damage, have a professional arborist assess the tree's structural integrity.

3. Leaning Tree

While some trees naturally grow at an angle, a sudden lean is a serious warning sign. If a tree that was previously upright starts leaning, it could indicate root damage or failure. Leaning trees are especially dangerous because they can fall suddenly and unpredictably.

4. Root Problems

Roots anchor the tree and absorb water and nutrients. Signs of root problems include:

• Visible root damage from construction or landscaping
• Fungal growth near the base of the tree
• Soil heaving or cracking around the trunk
• The tree leaning or shifting
• Decline in the tree's overall health

5. Disease or Pest Infestation

Many tree diseases and pest infestations can be treated if caught early. However, some conditions are fatal or can spread to other trees on your property. Signs include unusual leaf discoloration, premature leaf drop, visible insects, sawdust-like material (frass), or oozing sap.

In Central Florida, watch for signs of oak wilt, citrus greening, and pine bark beetle infestations. If you notice any of these signs, consult an arborist immediately.

6. Storm Damage

Florida's hurricanes and severe storms can cause significant tree damage. After a storm, assess your trees for:

• Large broken branches still hanging in the tree
• Split trunks or major limbs
• Trees partially uprooted
• Significant loss of the tree's canopy

Some storm-damaged trees can be saved with proper pruning, while others are too compromised to recover safely.

7. Location Problems

Sometimes a healthy tree still needs to be removed because of its location:

• Growing too close to your home's foundation
• Roots damaging sidewalks, driveways, or plumbing
• Branches interfering with power lines
• Blocking sunlight from gardens or solar panels
• Creating a safety hazard over play areas or driveways

When in Doubt, Call a Professional

If you're unsure whether a tree needs to be removed, the safest choice is to have it assessed by a certified arborist. At Tree Service Legends, we provide free tree assessments. We'll honestly tell you if a tree can be saved with pruning or treatment, or if removal is the best option for your safety.