Obviously, a beautiful tree in the yard gives a charm to any home, but have you ever wondered what happens when that tree becomes weak or overgrown? Despite many advantages of growing a tree in your yard, trees in poor condition may cause property damage, human safety and even neighborhood disputes. To overcome these risks, this article will provide you with the six major issues of weak and overgrown trees and how to save further complications effectively.

1. Increased Risk of Falling Branches

The growth of trees is inevitable, and such a situation causes unstable branches that can snap without any signs. Heavy limbs, particularly those extending over driveways, walkways, or homes, can break off during storms or high winds. Even on a calm day, weakened branches can fall unexpectedly, posing a threat to people, pets, vehicles, and structures below.

What to do?

Tree maintenance like pruning dead or weak, helps prevent these issues before they grow hazardous. Professionals should evaluate trees with visibly cracked, hollow, or leaning limbs to determine if further action is needed.

2. Structural Weakness Can Lead to Tree Collapse

A tree that appears healthy on the outside may still have internal weaknesses that compromise its stability. Diseases, pests, and decay often weaken a tree from within, making it more susceptible to collapse. Trees that lean excessively or have a large portion of their trunk missing are at higher risk of falling, especially during harsh weather conditions.

Solution

A leaning tree may indicate root damage or shifting soil, which requires immediate attention. A tree services company in MA can assess the severity of structural weaknesses and recommend solutions, whether it’s bracing, pruning, or removal if necessary.

3. Root Damage Can Harm Your Property

Tree roots don’t just grow downward—they expand outward for water and nutrients. When left unchecked, large tree roots can cause significant damage to driveways, sidewalks, septic systems, and even your home’s foundation. Cracks in pavement, lifted walkways, or blocked drainage pipes are all warning signs of invasive root growth.

Practical Steps to Prevent This

Certain tree species are more prone to aggressive root expansion than others, so homeowners should consider tree placement carefully when planting new ones. If trees already affect underground structures, consulting a tree care professional can help determine the best course of action.

4. Pest Infestations and Tree Diseases

Weak or overgrown trees are more vulnerable to pest infestations and diseases, which can spread quickly to surrounding vegetation. Insects such as termites, beetles, and borers often invade stressed trees, further weakening their structure. Additionally, fungal infections can cause decay, leading to brittle branches and internal rot.

Course of Action

If you notice peeling bark, abnormal leaf discoloration, or visible pest activity, it’s essential to address the issue promptly. Proper pruning, disease treatment, and sometimes tree removal can prevent infestations from spreading to healthy trees.

5. Overgrown Trees Can Interfere with Power Lines

The most common danger often overlooked is the tree’s proximity to the power lines. This could cause risks like outages, fires, or even electrocution if a storm brings them down.

Preventative Measures

Tree trimming should be done regularly to ensure branches aren’t too close to power lines. However, due to the dangers involved, a professional tree service should always handle trimming near electrical wires to prevent accidental injury.

6. Obstructed Views and Reduced Curb Appeal

Apart from safety concerns, these overgrown trees can block the landscape and reduce natural light. This can affect the overall appearance of the home. A well-maintained tree enhances curb appeal, while an untamed or overgrown one can make a property look neglected. Dense foliage may also interfere with security cameras, street visibility, or outdoor lighting.

Key Actions

Trimming and shaping trees not only improve aesthetics but also promote healthier growth. Regular maintenance keeps trees balanced with their surroundings and prevents them from becoming an eyesore.

Final Thoughts

Setting the business and appearance of the home aside to save the cost of lives and money is a wise sacrifice. Weak or overgrown trees cause many harms like structural damage and even dangerous accidents if they are taken for granted. Homeowners can prevent these vandalizations by following measures like pruning, inspecting for signs of disease, and managing root growth.

It may be evident that these issues caused by trees are unpredictable and unavoidable, but as they are accountable for risks, preventing them with vital measures is better than curing. By addressing these hidden dangers early, you can enjoy the benefits of a beautiful, secure yard without unexpected risks.

Andreea Dima
Author

I'm Andreea Dima, your go-to gal for all things interior design since 2012. I've been writing, learning, and sharing my design knowledge ever since. Do you want your place to feel like home? I gotcha, boo.

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