If a tree is dead, no discussion is necessary— it should be removed right away for safety purposes. After a tree dies, it will shed its limbs and branches, which can be dangerous for you and your property. But, what if a tree is only sick? A diseased tree also poses a threat to your safety. However, a diseased tree does not always require removal by a tree service company, so it is essential to know when tree elimination is necessary.
Should My Tree be Removed?
Table of Contents
How close is the tree to properties
The most crucial factor you should consider when deciding to remove a tree is human safety. Does the tree create dangerous situations for pedestrians, cars, or animals? Is it close to sidewalks, or can it interrupt traffic flow? Is it significantly near a house or a building? If the answer to any of these questions is a resounding yes, it may be time to call your local tree company to perform tree removal. If the tree is a danger to people or property, the rule of thumb is eliminating it.
How much it will cost to restore it vs. replacing it
This may need more time and factoring in to evaluate the answer. In most cases, it depends on the type of replacement you are looking for. If you buy a small seedling, it may cost you only $10. However, a massive sapling can take up to $1000, depending on the tree species. You should also consider the type of disease your tree has been afflicted with. Some diseases can be resolved with nutrient application and watering. However, some require costly applications that may take years to see the full effect. Make sure to consult a professional arborist to understand the situation of your tree and learn the best way to go about it. You also want to look for a more appropriate species of a tree when looking for a replacement. Some trees tend to survive better in specific weather and soil conditions, so it would be wise to know what trees will thrive in yours.
Be reasonable about a tree’s chance of recovery
No matter the reason for a tree’s damage– whether its nutritional deficiency, storm damage, or lightning strike, it is essential to note that there is a limit to what it can bear. While it is not an exact science, canopy damage of more than 25% leads to total deterioration. If the tree is diseased, even 15-percent damage of its canopy can lead to its death. Learning the real cause of the decline is essential to make a sound assessment of your tree’s condition. It is worth your time and money to hire a certified arborist to provide you with a complete diagnostic of your tree. This way, you will know if your tree is worth saving or not.
Think about the future
Take the long view when it comes to the situation of your trees. There is a chance that they will stay with you for decades, so the sooner you replace a damaged tree, the sooner you can take advantage of its benefits. Instead of feeling sorry about the loss of your previous tree, think about the new life and value your new tree can bring.
