Did you know that trees can live up to thousands of years? Even if you don’t have a massive tree on your property, you should still consider having it inspected once a year by a certified arborist. They’ll ensure your tree is in good standing and won’t become a hazard to your property.
Even if you don’t use our quick tree inspection checklist, checking your trees should become a habit to ensure you’re safe.
Don’t let your trees fall on your house; check them out occasionally, and use this checklist on what to look for during an inspection.
General Health
When considering the tree trimming service, it is essential to look at the condition and overall tree health. Look for signs of dead, diseased, or dying branches and any physical damage to the tree, like cracks, broken bark, or excess stress caused by the environment.
Ensure the tree looks healthy overall with well-developed foliage and balanced growth. A certified arborist should be able to assess the tree’s health and advise on the best course of action for trimming it.
Another essential factor to consider is the size of the tree canopy. Are there dense areas? Are there any bald patches or sparse areas? Check the soil around the tree for compaction, poor drainage, or signs of grubs.
Signs of Deadwood and Decay
Inspect your trees for signs of deadwood and decay, including discolored or rotten wood, insect damage, fungal growth, and cavities. A pocket saw can inspect further areas that appear dead or decaying. Upon further inspection, these areas may present signs of timber decay fungi, a type of fungi that decays standing living trees.
This type of fungus can be identified through discolored wood, stringy masses, slime flux, and conks. Decay can also be indicated in trees if there are hollows or soft areas, which could be signs of wood-boring insects or mechanical injury.
Signs of Pests
During a tree inspection, looking for signs of pests is essential. Signs of infestations may include abnormal leaves, unusual growth patterns, and droppings. Furthermore, holes in the bark or weak sunken areas in the trunk indicate an infestation.
Insects can also cause damage to the limbs or crown, which can cause the tree to break or collapse. If sap is found on the trunk in patches or trails, sap suckers or borers might be present. If any of these signs are present, the tree should be treated and monitored for further signs of pests.
Learning What to Look for During Tree Inspection
Overall, using a tree inspection checklist to review the tree’s health is essential so you can act accordingly. If you see any issues, contact a certified arborist for further assistance. Taking the necessary steps to inspect your trees can help keep them safe and healthy.
Now that you know the elements to look for, it’s time to inspect your trees.
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