Signs Your Tree Needs Professional Attention

Trees in your garden or backyard can face many weather challenges, from harsh prairie conditions to sudden chinook winds, so it is important to know when to contact a professional tree service to help save your precious trees and even protect your property from potential damage.

It is important for property owners to recognize conditions that may threaten the health and stability of their trees. The following are key warning signs indicating when a professional assessment is necessary. If you spot any of these signs, Calgary Tree Works can provide a professional assessment.

Visible cracks and splits in the trunks.

If your tree has large cracks and a split trunk, it will cause severe problems that directly affect the tree’s structure. These problems are often caused by fluctuations in temperature. In Calgary, the temperature can drop to -30 °C and then suddenly warm during chinooks. This is closely related to why your tree looks fine in summer but dies over winter.

What to look for:

• Vertical cracks on the trunk of your trees
• Look for splits that expose the inner wood of your tree.
• Check for separation between bark layers regularly.
• Tree wounds that don’t seem to be healed in the meantime

A deep crack in your tree can lead to severe issues, such as structural instability, and provide entry points for harmful insects. For instance, cottonwood trees in Calgary that develop deep trunk cracks after chinooks can attract wood-boring beetles, which exacerbate internal decay. In such cases, bracing or cabling may stabilize the tree and prevent further damage. However, if structural integrity is compromised beyond repair, it may be necessary to remove the tree to ensure safety.

1. Leaning trees or changing their position

Trees naturally grow at an angle. When windstorms and heavy spring snowfall affect trees, they may suddenly lean or shift, potentially causing root failure. This is one of the main reasons trees suddenly fall over with no warning.

Warning signs include:

• Recent changes in the tree’s angle
• Cracking in the soil and heaving around the tree’s base
• You may notice roots exposed on one side.
• A tree may lean toward structures, power lines, or high-traffic areas.

Consult a professional quickly if you notice your tree leaning, as attempting to address a leaning tree without proper training can be dangerous. In Calgary, tree service experts have modern equipment and expertise to safely remove trees that are harmful or pose a severe threat to property.

Dead or dying branches

If the tree has dead or dying branches, it is a severe hazard, as brittle limbs may fall without warning, causing property damage and severe injuries.

Dead or dying branches signs:

• As the season progresses, if there are no leaves or needles, it will be a sign of dying branches.
• Fragile woods that can snap easily
• Peeled or missing bark on the tree
• Check for fungal growth on the branches.
• Branches are exposed while the rest of the tree’s leaves are out.

The best time to consult a professional tree care company is when the tree’s canopy shows signs of decline of more than 25%. Removing dead wood is very difficult and requires an experienced arborist. See our guide on tree removal vs tree trimming, which does your property need.

Fungal Growth and Mushrooms

Mushrooms and fungal growth on your tree’s trunk or at its base indicate internal decay. These fungi compromise your tree through dead or dying wood.

Fungal problem types:

• Fungal brackets on the trunk of trees
• Mushroom rings around the tree base.
• Powdery plant fungus on leaves
• Stained or slippery areas on the tree covering.

Older trees are mostly affected by fungal infections due to the severe climate. An experienced, certified arborist will determine and recommend appropriate actions to prevent fungal infections and improve tree health.

Pest Problems

If you want a healthy, strong tree, it is better to protect it from insect damage. There are birch pests and beetles that are very harmful to trees; they are likely present in Alberta, as tracked by Alberta’s forest pest monitoring program.

Signs of pest problems:

• Small holes in the trunk of trees
• Powdery material at the tree base
• Abnormal woodpecker behavior
• Premature leaf drop
• Thinning canopy
• Sticky material on leaves or bark on trees

In Calgary, professional tree services will identify harmful species and create targeted treatment plans. Some of these harmful species require immediate professional attention to prevent spread.

Root problems and soil issues

Healthy roots are considered the core elements of a healthy tree. The stronger the roots, the stronger the tree. In Calgary, the soil is very harsh in winter, which is very challenging for tree root systems.

Warning signs of root issues include roots circling the trunks of trees.

• The base has mushrooms.
• Erosion of the surface around the base of trees
• Standing water near the trees is likely caused by a damaged drainage system.
• Changing the position of the roots for sidewalks or foundations

Because identifying root damage requires professional expertise, it is important to consult an arborist if you notice unusual water drainage around your trees or if you have recently completed construction. Recognizing these warning signs will help you take timely action before other serious issues, such as bark abnormalities, arise. If you’re planning to plant near your driveway or sidewalk, see our guide on how far you should plant a tree from your house, fence or driveway.

Bark Abnormalities

Tree bark is the first line of defense. If the bark is damaged, it can spread disease throughout the tree.

Issues concerning bark:

• Large areas of missing or peeling bark
• Dark streaks or discoloration
• Unusual liquid discharge
• Deep wounds from lawn equipment or animals

If the bark is damaged, it will be problematic because it exposes trees to frost damage. In Calgary’s sudden climate change, the pests will penetrate during the winter months.

Storm Damage

In Calgary, the weather is harsh year-round, with hailstorms in summer and blizzards in winter. Even the strong and healthy-looking trees could be sustaining hidden damage.

Post-storm assessment needs:

• Branches that are hanging or broken partially
• Cracked branches are still attached to the tree.
• Injured bark or exposed wood
• Branches that are near power lines
• Trees that contact your home or structures

If you’re not a professional, do not attempt to remove the damaged branches by yourself because they can cause serious injuries. There are 24/7 emergency tree services in Calgary. See our guide on what to do in the first 24 hours after a storm hits your yard and our storm damage emergency tree services.

Proximity to structures and Utilities

The branches leaning towards power lines and the trees very close to your home require expert management. The trees, which appear healthy, also need attention given their location.

Concerns about tree location:

• Tree or branches within 3 meters of power lines
• Roots causing foundation issues
• Blockage of sunlight or views by trees
• Affecting the neighbor’s property with the overgrowth of trees
• Limited clearance for safe growth

If the trees are located in a suspicious location, the professional arborist will perform strategic pruning to maintain safe clearance while preserving tree health.

When to call a Calgary tree service professional

If you observe any problems with your tree, seek assistance from a certified arborist or a professional tree care company in Calgary before the issue escalates into a significant hazard. Most reputable tree service providers offer:

• Free assessments
• Certified arborist consultations
• Tree removal and pruning with safety
• Emergency storm response
• Tree health treatments

Protecting your investment

In summary, maintaining healthy trees is essential for environmental benefits, property value, and overall landscape aesthetics. To ensure tree health and prevent severe issues, property owners should regularly schedule professional inspections, address warning signs promptly, and seek expert guidance when problems arise.

In Calgary, most homeowners schedule annual health assessments for their trees, usually in late winter or early spring, to identify issues before they become severe. This approach will protect your property and maximize the lifespan of your landscape.

In Alberta, the challenging climate will require professional equipment and specialized knowledge. If you’re having some doubt, you will always consult with a certified arborist who knows the demands of maintaining healthy trees in Calgary’s environment. Reach out to Calgary Tree Works to schedule your assessment.