Signs Your Trees Need Professional Tree Care

Posted on February 28th, 2026

Trees add beauty, shade, and value to your property—but like any living thing, they require proper care to stay healthy. While some issues are easy to spot, others develop slowly and can become dangerous if ignored. Recognizing early warning signs can help you prevent costly damage and protect both your landscape and your home.

Below are the most common signs that indicate it’s time to call a professional tree care service.

1. Dead or Hanging Branches

Large dead branches—especially those high in the canopy—pose serious safety risks. These limbs can fall without warning during storms or high winds.

Warning signs include:

• Brittle branches with no leaves
• Cracking or splitting wood
• Branches hanging loosely

Professional tree trimming removes hazardous limbs safely and prevents further damage.

2. Leaning Trees

A slight natural lean is normal for some trees, but a sudden or increasing tilt could signal root instability.

Red flags:

• Exposed roots
• Soil lifting around the base
• Leaning after heavy rain or storms

An unstable tree may require professional tree service assessment to determine whether stabilization or removal is necessary.

3. Cracks in the Trunk

Deep vertical cracks or splits in the trunk can indicate structural weakness. These cracks often form due to:

• Storm damage
• Internal decay
• Temperature fluctuations

A certified arborist can evaluate whether the tree can be saved or if tree removal is the safest option.

4. Fungal Growth at the Base

Mushrooms or fungal growth around the trunk base often suggest internal rot. Fungi feed on decaying wood, which means the tree’s structural integrity may already be compromised.

This is one of the most serious tree health warning signs and should be inspected immediately.

5. Sparse Leaves or Discolored Foliage

If your tree produces fewer leaves than usual or shows yellowing or browning leaves outside the normal seasonal cycle, it may be stressed.

Possible causes:

• Nutrient deficiency
• Root damage
• Disease
• Pest infestation

Professional tree care services can diagnose the issue and recommend treatment such as fertilization or pruning.

6. Bark Falling Off

Healthy trees typically shed small amounts of bark naturally. However, large sections of peeling bark can indicate disease or decay.

If you notice:

• Bare patches on the trunk
• Soft or crumbly wood underneath
• Visible insect activity

It’s time to schedule a professional tree inspection.

7. Cavities or Hollow Areas

Visible holes or hollow sections inside the trunk weaken the tree’s structure. While some trees can survive with minor cavities, large hollow areas increase the risk of collapse.

A tree service company can assess whether the tree can be preserved through pruning or requires removal.

8. Overgrown Branches Near Structures

Branches touching your roof, siding, or power lines are more than just inconvenient—they can cause serious damage.

Overgrown trees can:

• Scratch roofing materials
• Block gutters
• Interfere with utility lines
• Increase storm damage risk

Routine tree trimming keeps growth controlled and protects your property.

9. Pest Infestations

Signs of infestation include:

• Small holes in bark
• Sawdust-like material at the base
• Visible insects
• Dying branches

Certain pests can quickly spread to other trees in your landscape. Early intervention by a professional arborist is critical.

10. Storm Damage

After severe weather, trees may appear stable but suffer hidden internal damage.

Check for:

• Split limbs
• Cracked trunks
• Hanging branches
• Root disturbance

Emergency tree service ensures hazards are safely removed before they cause injury or property damage.

Why Professional Tree Care Matters

Tree maintenance isn’t just about appearance—it’s about safety and long-term landscape health. Professional tree care services provide:

• Safe tree trimming and pruning
• Tree health assessments
• Disease diagnosis and treatment
• Structural stabilization
• Safe tree removal when necessary

Ignoring early warning signs often leads to more expensive repairs and greater risk.

Safe & Reliable Tree Services Near You

Trees are valuable assets to your property, but they require attention and proper maintenance. If you notice any of these signs—dead branches, leaning trunks, fungal growth, or pest damage—it’s best to consult a professional tree service before the problem worsens.

Landscape PRO LLC offers safe and reliable tree trimming, tree removal, and tree health inspections to protect your property and maintain landscape safety.

If you notice signs of tree damage or instability, contact us today at (267) 444-0067 to schedule a professional tree care evaluation.