When to Call in a Tree Service for Overgrown Trees

Maintaining trees on your property is essential for both aesthetic appeal and safety. Over time, however, trees can become overgrown, leading to a range of issues that might require the assistance of a professional tree service. While regular maintenance can keep your trees healthy, knowing when to call in a tree service is crucial for preventing potential hazards, ensuring proper growth, and maintaining the health of your trees.

Signs Your Trees Are Overgrown

Before calling in a tree service, it’s important to recognize when a tree has become overgrown. There are several indicators that can signal the need for professional care:

Excessive Overgrowth
One of the most obvious signs that a tree is overgrown is if its branches have spread too far beyond the natural shape or have begun encroaching on your home, power lines, or other structures. When branches grow excessively, they may cause physical damage, such as scraping against windows or roofs, or pose a risk of breaking off in a storm. Overgrowth can also block sunlight from reaching other plants in your garden or yard.
Dead or Damaged Limbs
Trees with dead or broken branches not only look untidy but can also be dangerous. Dead wood can become a hazard during windstorms, with branches falling unexpectedly. If you notice dead limbs, especially those that are large and hanging precariously, it’s time to call in a professional to assess and safely remove the hazardous growth.
Poor Tree Structure
Trees with weak or unbalanced structures are at risk of falling or breaking. If the tree appears lopsided, with an uneven canopy or leaning to one side, it could indicate that the growth pattern has become compromised. A tree service can perform pruning to correct the tree’s structure and reduce the chances of it becoming unstable.
Interference with Utility Lines
Overgrown trees can interfere with nearby power lines or utility connections, potentially creating fire hazards or causing power outages. If tree branches are growing too close to power lines, it’s essential to call in a tree service before the situation escalates into a more dangerous issue.
Pests and Diseases
Overgrown trees are more likely to harbor pests, diseases, or fungi. Thick, dense branches can trap moisture, creating the perfect environment for fungal growth and insect infestations. If you notice signs of pests or disease, such as holes in the bark, discolored leaves, or a sudden decline in the tree’s health, it’s time to seek professional help to address the issue before it spreads.

Why You Need a Professional Tree Service

While you may be tempted to handle tree trimming or pruning on your own, there are significant advantages to hiring a professional tree service for overgrown trees. Here’s why:

Expertise and Knowledge
Professional arborists have extensive knowledge of tree care and growth patterns. They understand how and when to prune, trim, or remove branches to maintain the tree’s health and structure. This expertise ensures that the tree remains healthy after the service is completed and that the cuts are made in a way that promotes proper growth.
Safety
Handling overgrown trees can be risky, especially if branches are located near power lines or high up in the tree. Professionals use the proper equipment and techniques to safely remove branches or even entire trees without causing harm to the property or posing a risk to those involved. Attempting to trim or remove large branches on your own can lead to serious injury or damage to your home.
Tree Health
Professional tree services prioritize the health of your trees. They will assess the tree’s overall condition, ensuring that pruning or trimming is done in a way that encourages strong growth and prevents stress or disease. Incorrect pruning can harm the tree, leading to long-term issues, such as rot or reduced vitality. A certified arborist will always aim to improve the health of the tree, rather than just making it look neat.
Proper Equipment
Professional tree services come equipped with high-quality tools and equipment to handle the job effectively. From powerful chainsaws to lifts that can reach the highest branches, the right tools are crucial for safely and efficiently managing overgrown trees. These tools also ensure that cuts are clean and precise, reducing the chances of causing unnecessary harm to the tree.
Regulatory Compliance
Some areas have strict regulations when it comes to tree removal or pruning, particularly if the trees are large, located near public spaces, or subject to environmental protections. A reputable tree service will be familiar with local laws and permits, ensuring that all work is carried out legally and ethically.

What to Expect from a Tree Service

When you call a tree service for an overgrown tree, there are several steps that typically take place:

Assessment
The tree service will first assess the tree’s condition, structure, and growth patterns. This evaluation will help determine the most appropriate course of action, whether it involves trimming, pruning, or even complete removal.
Pruning or Trimming
If the tree is simply overgrown, the tree service will carefully prune or trim the branches to improve the tree’s shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and allow for better airflow and sunlight. This process promotes healthy growth and reduces the risk of future problems.
Tree Removal
In extreme cases where the tree poses a significant danger or is beyond repair, the tree service may recommend removal. This is typically done if the tree is unstable, diseased beyond saving, or causing significant damage to structures or power lines.
Clean-Up
After the work is completed, the tree service will clean up any debris left behind. This includes removing branches, leaves, and wood from the property, leaving your yard looking neat and tidy.