Tree Health Blog

by Tree Health 5 May 2025
After having a tree removed, it might seem harmless to leave the stump behind. However, over time, that leftover stump can cause a range of problems that affect both the safety and appearance of your yard. Removing tree stumps promptly is an important step in maintaining a healthy and attractive landscape. At Tree Health, we provide top-quality stump grinding and removal in the greater Hicksville, NY area. Here are five reasons why you should remove stumps as soon as possible. Stumps Can Be a Safety Hazard Tree stumps pose a real tripping hazard, especially for children and visitors. If someone accidentally trips over a stump on your property, it could result in injuries and potential liability. Stumps can also damage lawn equipment if not seen in time, leading to costly repairs. Removing the stump helps prevent accidents and keeps your yard safer for everyone who spends time there. They Attract Unwanted Pests An old tree stump can become a magnet for pests such as termites, ants, and other wood-boring insects. Once these pests move into the rotting wood, they may start to spread to healthy plants, trees, or even your home. Over time, the decaying stump becomes an ideal breeding ground for infestations that are difficult and expensive to eliminate. By removing the stump, you reduce the risk of inviting unwanted bugs into your yard. Stumps Can Cause New Tree Growth Tree stumps may continue to sprout new shoots, leading to unwanted and unsightly growth around the base. These sprouts can be persistent and tough to control, often requiring repeated cutting. Removing the stump entirely helps ensure the tree doesn’t make an unwanted comeback. They Take Up Valuable Space A stump in the middle of your yard can get in the way of future landscaping projects or simply limit your outdoor space. Whether you're dreaming of a new garden bed, a patio, or a play area for your kids, a stump can be a major obstacle. By getting rid of it, you open up space that can be put to better use. They Detract from Curb Appeal No matter how well-maintained your landscaping is, an old stump can be an eyesore. It disrupts the flow of your yard and gives the impression of unfinished work. If you’re planning to sell your home or just want a cleaner look, removing tree stumps can instantly boost your property's curb appeal and make your yard look more inviting. Stump Grinding & 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 arrange an arborist estimate in Hicksville, NY!
by Tree Health 4 April 2025
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!
A tree with a metal ring around it in the middle of a forest.
by Tree Health 17 February 2025
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.