Is a tree that was once upright now leaning? Do you have to put in the work of clearing branches from your yard after each storm? Then there is the old oak by the house and the concern it might one day make its way onto the roof.

We at Eastern Tree Pros, LLC field such questions from homeowners on a daily basis. As a local company we are proud to call our own, we are here to provide the answers in Eastern North Carolina. Should you be in any doubt about a tree, put in a call to (252) 360-1889 and let one of us put a trained eye on it.

For all the value, shade and beauty trees bring to a property, they can turn into a hazard when their health is waning or they are in decline. It is good to know what you are up against; it will safeguard your home and family and cost you less in the long run.

Why You Should Heed the Warning Signs

A tree will usually give some indication before it falls. The problem is most people are not looking for those indications and so they go unheeded. From where you stand a tree may look perfectly sound but in fact be riddled with root damage or decay.

There is no mystery to it though. Here are the warning signs we come across in Pitt, Wilson and Craven counties more than others.

Red Flags to Spot on the Ground

One does not have to be an expert to tell when there is trouble. Make a circuit of your tree and check for:

• A lean of late vintage or one that has been progressing
• Widow-makers, i.e. dead limbs of a sizeable nature up in the canopy
• The trunk showing deep splits or cracks
• Fungus or mushrooms making themselves known at the base
• Patches of bark peeling away or gone altogether
• Rotted wood leaving hollows or cavities

Individually they are cause for concern; in combination you would do well to treat them as such.

Root Issues You May Miss

Without strong roots the tree is in jeopardy. Yet because much of the action is below ground, root problems are difficult to detect. See if the soil is heaving or has cracked to one side of the trunk, an indication the roots are loosening. Decay on exposed roots or fungus around the base should set off alarm bells. Even if the tree appears fine, roots can be compromised if construction has been going on in the vicinity.

In the Wake of a Storm

Storms are a fact of life in this part of North Carolina and they put a strain on trees. Make a point of inspecting the larger specimens on your land following a hurricane or any high winds. Note any fresh cracks or split limbs and see if a tree has moved about. One that has taken a beating and is now leaning or missing limbs may not make it through the next storm. It is a hazard near your driveway or home not to be dismissed.

Branches That Are Past Their Prime

You will find your share of dead twigs, that is to be expected. But a thinning canopy where other trees are full, or large amounts of dead wood, is not normal. Come spring, if a tree is not putting on leaves like the rest, it is a sure sign of decline.

These branches have a habit of coming down in the worst of weather. It is better to be safe and remove a tree than to be left to clean up the mess when it has decided to fall.

Call in a Professional

Some matters are obvious, others are not. If you cannot decide if a tree is salvageable or has to go, you are better off having a licensed and insured firm assess it.

Eastern Tree Pros, LLC does residential and commercial work in and around Greenville, New Bern, Kinston, Wilson, Vanceboro, Ayden, Williamston, Washington and Tarboro. We are open Monday to Friday 7:30am to 6:30pm and have 24/7 emergency service for any tree presenting an immediate danger. We will give you a free estimate so you can make an informed decision.

Do not put it off until it is an emergency. Contact us at (252) 360-1889 and we will see to it that your property is made safe.