One of the most important steps of tree maintenance is knowing when a tree has become overgrown and needs to be pruned. When trees are not regularly pruned, they can become unhealthy and dangerous. Fortunately, several signs can help you recognize when to call in an experienced tree care professional for assistance.
1. Crowding Around the Base
If you notice your tree’s trunk is starting to look wider than usual or roots are coming up from the ground, this could be a sign of overcrowding. Trees can strangle themselves When they get too big for their space, leading to disease or even death. Also, if you notice that nearby shrubs, flowers, or grasses have started to wilt due to lack of sun exposure or are being pushed up by roots from an overgrown tree, it’s likely time for pruning.
2. Heavy Limbs
Overgrown branches can become too heavy to support themselves, which can cause them to droop or even break off completely. This poses a threat to people and property and can also negatively affect the health and growth of the tree. If you notice your tree’s limbs sagging or bowing under their weight, it may be a sign of overgrowth. This is especially common in species such as oak trees which tend to form large canopies that become unwieldy when left unchecked.
3. Obstructing Views
Looking out your window only to be met with an obstructed view of the beautiful scenery outside is frustrating, but it could also be a sign of overgrown trees. As trees grow taller and wider, they can easily interfere with your line of sight, obstructing views of the surrounding areas. This can be especially troublesome if you live in a picturesque location or have beautiful landscaping you would like to enjoy from the comfort of your home.
4. Dying Leaves and Branches
When a tree becomes too dense, light and air cannot penetrate the branches. This leads to leaves and branches dying off as they don’t receive enough nutrients to thrive. The problem can only escalate as the dead leaves and branches are breeding grounds for pests and diseases. It’s important to address this issue early on to prevent potential hazards. Keeping an eye out for dying leaves and branches is essential to maintaining healthy and safe trees.
5. Excessive Fruits and Seeds
Trees may also overproduce fruits or seeds when they are overgrown. This can not only be a nuisance, as these items will drop onto the ground below, but it could also create potential hazards such as slipping and tripping. This can especially be a problem for trees planted near walkways or driveways. If your tree produces too many fruits and seeds, it may be time to consider pruning the branches.
Overgrown trees can become dangerous if not addressed quickly and properly. If you think your tree is getting too big for its space, don’t hesitate to enlist the help of a certified arborist or tree care professional. Contact us at A+ Tree & Landscaping for top-notch tree pruning services in Wilmington, NC.
