Tree Health Blog
Trees bring environmental benefits to your property, but when a tree dies, it can become a serious safety hazard. A dead tree is at risk of falling, which can cause property damage and serious injuries. If you suspect that a tree on your property may be dead, it’s crucial to recognize the warning signs and alert the arborist. At Tree Health, we provide expert tree removal in the greater Hicksville, NY area. Here are five signs that a tree is no longer alive. Brittle or Peeling Bark When a tree dies, the bark often becomes dry, brittle, and starts peeling away in large chunks. You may also notice deep cracks or splits in the trunk, which indicate structural weakness. If you scrape away a small section of bark and find dry tissue instead of a moist, green layer, it’s a sign that the tree is no longer alive. Lack of Leaves A tree that fails to produce leaves during the growing season is likely dead or dying. Deciduous trees should sprout new leaves in the spring, while evergreens should maintain their green needles year-round. If a tree has bare branches during the warm months or its leaves are withering and turning brown out of season, it may no longer be alive. Large Dead Branches Another clear sign of a dead tree is the presence of numerous dead or broken branches. If a tree has large sections of its canopy that are bare, it may be beyond saving. You can test the health of a branch by bending a smaller twig. If it snaps easily and lacks any green tissue inside, the tree is likely dead. A Leaning Trunk and Unstable Base A tree that has started to lean significantly is often a sign of internal decay or root failure. While some trees naturally grow at an angle, a sudden or worsening lean is cause for concern. Dead trees lose their structural integrity, making them more prone to toppling over, especially during storms or high winds. Exposed or Decaying Roots The health of a tree starts at its roots, and if the root system is badly compromised, the tree is unlikely to survive. Exposed roots, especially those that appear rotting or covered in fungi, are a strong indication that the tree is dead or in severe decline. Tree Removal in Hicksville, NY When you need tree services in Hicksville, NY and the surrounding area, contact Tree Health at 516-268-3745 . Feel free to give us a call to request an arborist estimate in Hicksville, NY!
Tree cabling and bracing is a critical technique used to support and stabilize trees, helping them withstand heavy winds, storms, and the effects of aging. At Tree Health, we often receive questions about these methods from homeowners and business owners in Hicksville and throughout Long Island. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common questions about tree cabling and bracing to help you better understand how these services can protect your trees and property. What is tree cabling and bracing? Tree cabling and bracing involve the use of high-strength cables and support rods to reinforce weak or damaged trees. Cabling is typically used to reduce stress on branches or limbs by redistributing weight, while bracing involves installing steel rods to stabilize splits or cracks in the trunk. These methods help prevent structural failure and prolong the life of the tree. How do I know if my tree needs cabling or bracing? If you notice large, heavy branches growing at unusual angles, multiple trunks that appear weakly attached, or visible cracks in the trunk, your tree may need additional support. A professional arborist can assess the structure of the tree and determine if cabling or bracing is the right solution. Does tree cabling harm the tree? No, when done correctly by a trained arborist, cabling and bracing do not harm the tree. Instead, they provide support to weak areas, allowing the tree to grow stronger and reducing the risk of limb failure. Over time, these methods can actually extend the lifespan of the tree. Can cabling and bracing prevent a tree from falling? While cabling and bracing can significantly reduce the risk of falling limbs and structural failure, they cannot guarantee that a tree will never fall. If a tree is severely damaged, diseased, or unstable, removal may be the safer option. An arborist can evaluate the tree and recommend the best course of action. If you’re concerned about the safety or stability of a tree on your property, Tree Health is here to help. Our ISA Certified Arborists provide expert assessments and professional cabling and bracing in Hicksville and throughout Central Long Island. Give our local arborists on Long Island a call at 516-268-3745 to schedule a consultation and ensure your trees remain strong and secure for years to come.
