So you think your tree may be dying; what you should know

Branch has broken away at the trunk

Yesterday morning I looked outside and noticed something strange over at my neighbor's house.  Apparently a large branch from his Laurel Oak had decided to break away from the rest of the tree. As of today the large branch is still hanging there as I am assuming that they will need to hire someone to remove the branch and perhaps the tree.  So this got me thinking; is it time for this tree to go or can they simply remove the branch and move on?   

So how do you know when it is time to remove a tree?    Sometimes it is hard to say goodbye to an old tree.  Some of us see a big tree as part of the family.  We value these trees for their beauty and appreciate them for shading our homes during the hot summer months.  But like all living things, trees die. Here are a few ways you can tell if the time has come:

• Your tree has lost a large percentage of its canopy.  If you have a storm and your tree loses a bunch of limbs, it may be stressed beyond repair
• If it has lost all of its leaves (and it is not the time of year for the tree to be without leaves) or if the leaves are all brown when they should be green, then your tree has died.  It is time for you to have it removed
• Large limbs are falling off for no apparent reason.  This usually indicates there is something wrong from the inside and the tree is no longer strong enough to hold on to these branches. 
• There has been a storm and now your tree is leaning towards your home.  This can mean that some of the roots have been damaged and if so the tree could die and fall on your home.  Better the tree go than you.
• Consult an arborist.  Most tree companies have arborists on staff and they can help you determine if the tree can be saved, and if so, what treatment is necessary.  If the tree cannot be saved they will let you know that as well. 

Who should cut down the tree? Think you are going to do it yourself?  Please don't! There is just too much that can go wrong.  Here are a few tips on hiring the right company.

• Hire a professional/trained arborist. ISA Certified Arborists
• Make sure that the company you hire is insured.  If they hurt themselves, someone else, or drop the tree on your house, you want to make sure they can pay for the damages.
• How long has the company been in business in your area?  Unsuccessful companies don't stay in business for too long.  Either hire a company that has been around for a long time or if you do go with a newer company be sure that they have a lot of good reviews from customers.  
• Get more than one written estimate. I had a tree removed last year and the second estimate was twice that of the first estimate.  Both companies were equally qualified and I was happy that I got the extra estimate as it confirmed that I was getting a deal.  
• Ask what all is included in the estimate. Is removal of the tree included?  Is stump grinding included?  Will they provide you with mulch or firewood from your tree if you would like it?  

Other things to consider:

• Replacement tree or trees.  Now that the old tree is gone, do you want another tree?  Depending on the size of the tree you may choose to replace the tree with one or more trees. 
• Tree Permits.  Before cutting a tree down you need to check with your local government to see if a tree removal permit is required.  Usually the company you hire to remove the tree can advise you, but understand that if they give you the wrong information you could be fined.  
• Finally, make sure that you take care of the trees that you do have.  Proper maintenance of your trees can help prolong their life.