A tree can look healthy and strong from the outside while serious decay is quietly spreading internally. While this hidden weakness may not raise concerns initially, it can pose safety hazards and property damage during adverse weather conditions. Internal decay can go undetected for a long time, compromising the tree’s structural integrity. By scheduling routine inspections with a trusted tree company like Sesmas Tree Service, you can catch signs of decay early before they worsen and cause irreversible damage. Here are the tell-tale signs you should watch out for before the next storm hits.
One of the most obvious signs of internal decay is wood that sounds hollow or feels unusually soft to the touch. Healthy wood generally has a solid structure, while decaying wood may lose its strength as fungi and microorganisms break down the material. Gently tap the trunk or examine exposed sections of wood for deterioration, and act quickly to prevent spreading. Although this hands-on approach may not reveal the extent of the problem, it can help you schedule an inspection and determine whether tree removal is necessary.
Visible signs on the trunk, such as deep holes, crevices, and openings in the trunk, can indicate that decay has spread. These signs usually appear after branches break, bark becomes damaged, or fungi enter through open wounds. While some trees can naturally seal off damaged areas, large cavities may indicate a significant amount of wood has been lost. During strong winds and heavy rains, the remaining healthy wood may struggle to handle the force of adverse weather conditions. As a property owner, you should pay attention to visible damage near major branch unions or around the lower trunk.
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Learn MoreAnother warning sign you need professional tree service in Georgia is organic growth, typically mushrooms or fungi. These unusual growths around the base usually indicate that the wood is weak and decay is likely occurring within the tree. Even if fungal growth may not raise concerns initially, it can spread to the roots or lower trunk, compromising the tree’s stability. A certified arborist knows how different fungi affect trees, ensuring accurate diagnosis and effective solutions to protect your green spaces. In the case of severe damage, a full tree removal may be the best course of action to prevent infections from spreading.
Large crevices in the trunk or major branches are red flags that should never be ignored. Cracks usually indicate structural stress, while dead branches may suggest that decay has spread. Additionally, an unusual lean can indicate structural issues that need immediate attention. When you detect these signs, call a local tree company to inspect, diagnose, and address the root cause of the problem. Sometimes, multiple signs can occur together, posing a greater risk if left unattended.
Finally, changes in bark can provide another clue that something is wrong beneath the surface. If you detect peeling, missing, sunken, or discolored bark, it may be due to an injury or disease. Regularly inspect your trees for sections where limbs are dying back, leaves are sparse, or parts of the canopy appear noticeably different from the rest of the tree. Although these symptoms don’t always prove internal decay, they show declining health that deserves immediate attention. A tree service provider can evaluate the conditions of your trees before severe weather exacerbates underlying issues.
The reality is that internal decay can go undetected until it is too late. By watching out for the signs of deterioration, you can identify potential problems earlier. Don’t wait for storms or adverse weather conditions to wreak havoc. Contact Sesmas Tree Service and schedule a consultation with our experts to maintain structurally sound trees for many years to come.
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