When To Say Goodbye To A Tree

Saying goodbye to a tree can be like saying farewell to an old friend, especially if it's a large, long-lived species that's been around for many decades. But sometimes it's not necessarily clear whether a tree is dying and needs to be cut down or if it's been damaged and still has some life in it.

You might ask what's the harm in just letting an old tree alone, leaving it to die a natural death on its own? Unfortunately, when a large tree dies, it can start breaking away in pieces — making it dangerous for people and structures. It could be time to call an arborist, or at least a certified tree specialist, who can advise you on the health of the tree, and who should know how to cut it down safely.

So how do you decide when a tree should be cut down? Here's some advice that can help you make a decision.

1. Is the tree a fast-growing or invasive species?
   Some trees grow really fast but are not particularly stable and are prone to disease or breaking. A more desirable tree is one that grows slowly and is recommended for your area as non-invasive. It's also a good idea to go for a drought-tolerant species. Each region of the country will have certain species that, though fast growers and shade providers, are not considered desirable. If you've had to cut down an invasive or otherwise undesirable tree and you want to replace it, consult a tree specialist for recommendations for your region.
   
   
2. Is there trunk damage?
   Damage to the trunk can be a sign of sickness or decay. A general rule of thumb is to leave the tree standing if the trunk damage is 25 percent or less, as the wound is likely to heal on its own. Cracks, splits, dead branch stubs, and large wounds are all indications of internal decay. While trees can live for years with internal decay, eventually they fall. A tree with multiple trunks may be susceptible to structural issues.
   
   
3. Are there large, dead limbs in the crown of the tree?
   These limbs or branches may fall and injure people or damage property. If it appears that 50 percent of the tree is dead, it should be removed.
   
   
4. Is the tree growing well?
   Compare the tree to those growing around it. If the leaf cover is thin, the foliage discolored, or the growth stunted, your tree is likely in trouble. Have a tree specialist look at your tree and see if it can be treated.
   
   
5. Are there root problems?
   This can be hard to detect, but tree fungus growing near the base and heaving soil are two signs of root disease.
   
   
6. Is the tree hollow?
   A hollow tree can live for many years, but it is structurally unsound and can fall, which may hurt people and damage property.
   
   
7. Has the tree suddenly started to lean?
   Not all leaning trees are in danger of falling, but if a tree starts to lean suddenly, it should be looked at by a specialist.
   
   
8. Is the tree too close to the house?
   Sometimes people plant trees close to a house without thinking of how big they will grow. Eventually, they may be big enough for limbs to fall on the house or damage the roof. While limbs that are too close to the roof should be cut back, consider removing the entire tree if it's too close to the house.

It's a good idea to call in an arborist or other tree specialist to assess your tree's health before you hire someone to start cutting.

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