BLOG Top Signs It's Time for a Professional Tree Assessment Sep 10, 2025

As a homeowner, maintaining the health and aesthetics of your yard is essential, and trees often form an integral part of that landscape. However, understanding when your trees need a professional assessment can be a bit tricky. Total Tree Service is here to help you navigate these complexities. In this article, we'll delve into the top signs that it's the right time for a professional tree assessment, ensuring your trees remain vibrant and safe.

Firstly, one of the most apparent signs indicating a need for a tree assessment is visible damage or distress on your trees. Look for cracks in the trunk or significant branches, peeling bark, or fungi growth, such as mushrooms at the base. These symptoms often suggest underlying health issues that, if unaddressed, can lead to tree death or hazardous structural failures.

Another critical indicator is the presence of dead or hanging branches. Branches that no longer produce leaves or are hanging precariously can pose a significant risk, especially during severe weather. These branches can fall unexpectedly, causing damage to property or injury to people. Routine inspection and trimming can prevent these risks, ensuring your trees remain safe and beautiful.

In addition to visible issues, seasonal changes can also warrant a professional tree assessment. If a tree fails to bloom or leaf out when it should, this could indicate disease or pest issues. Professional arborists can identify the cause and recommend appropriate treatments to restore your tree's health and vitality.

Signs of pest infestation are another reason to call in a tree expert. Look out for holes in leaves or bark, sawdust-like material around the base, or an unusual number of insects buzzing around a specific tree. These pests can rapidly deteriorate a tree's health, and timely intervention is crucial to preventing further damage.

Also noteworthy are changes in a tree's lean or posture. While some trees may naturally grow at an angle, a sudden shift or increased lean often signals a root issue or structural imbalance that might require a professional tree risk assessment. Addressing these concerns can prevent potential uprooting or falling, especially during storms.

Soil health is an oft-overlooked aspect of tree care but is fundamental to overall tree health. Compacted soil or poor drainage can suffocate roots, leading to disease or tree death. An assessment can evaluate soil conditions and recommend solutions like aeration or soil amendments to support robust root development.

It's also advisable to seek a professional assessment if you're planning any construction projects near trees. The presence of heavy machinery or changes in land grading can impact a tree's root system and its overall health. Early assessment and planning can mitigate these impacts, preserving your landscape and ensuring project success.

Concluding its importance, a professional tree assessment not only identifies current issues but also helps foresee potential future problems. Total Tree Service offers comprehensive evaluations that encompass all these aspects, ensuring your trees receive the best care while enhancing your property's safety and beauty.

Keeping a vigilant eye on the health of your trees ensures a thriving landscape. Regular professional assessments are more than preventive; they are investments in your property’s long-term health and value. Whether for addressing immediate concerns or planning future projects, the expertise of Total Tree Service is just a call away. Let us help you ensure your trees continue to grace your landscape for generations to come.