What Are The Signs Your Tree Needs Professional Care?

Trees are an important part of any garden, providing beauty, shade, and even boosting property value. However, they need regular maintenance and attention to stay healthy and safe. Knowing the signs your tree needs professional care can help you catch problems early and avoid costly damage or dangerous situations.

In this blog, we’ll highlight the most common indicators that it’s time to call in a qualified tree surgeon in Eastbourne and across East Sussex.

1. Dead or Dying Branches

One of the clearest signs your tree needs professional care is the presence of dead or dying branches. These branches often lack leaves, even during the growing season, or may have dry, brittle bark. Not only do they make your tree look unhealthy, but they also pose a safety risk, especially during high winds. A professional tree surgeon can assess the overall health of the tree and safely remove hazardous branches before they cause damage.

2. Cracks, Splits, or Damage to the Trunk

If you spot cracks, splits, or large wounds in the trunk, this is another strong sign your tree needs professional care. Cracks can be caused by storms, disease, or structural weakness and may indicate internal decay. Tree surgeons can determine whether the damage is cosmetic or if it’s compromising the tree’s stability, helping you decide whether pruning, bracing, or even full removal is the safest solution.

3. Sudden Leaning

A tree that starts to lean unexpectedly – particularly after a storm – is a red flag. While some trees naturally grow at an angle, a sudden change in the tree’s position could indicate root damage, unstable soil, or internal structural failure. Professional tree surgeons have the skills and equipment to assess whether your tree can be saved or if removal is necessary to protect your property and neighbouring trees.

4. Fungal Growth Around the Base

Mushrooms, brackets, or other fungal growth appearing at the base of a tree can signal root rot or internal decay. While not all fungi are harmful, some can indicate serious problems beneath the surface. A tree surgeon can correctly identify the type of fungus and determine whether it’s harmless or one of the signs your tree needs professional care.

5. Unusual Leaf Discolouration or Loss

Leaves offer valuable clues about tree health. If you notice leaves turning yellow, brown, or falling out of season, your tree could be suffering from disease, pest infestations, or environmental stress. Professional care may include diagnosing the issue, removing affected limbs, or improving soil and drainage to support better tree health.

6. Exposed or Damaged Roots

Healthy roots are vital for tree stability. If you notice exposed, damaged, or decaying roots, it’s another key sign. Root issues are particularly concerning in areas like Eastbourne and coastal East Sussex, where stormy weather can increase the risk of trees becoming unstable. Tree surgeons can assess root health and provide advice on whether the tree can be saved or requires removal.

7. Trees Crowding Each Other or Nearby Structures

Trees growing too close together (or too close to buildings, fences, or power lines) may suffer from poor airflow, limited sunlight, and competition for nutrients. Overcrowding is not just bad for tree health, it can also increase the risk of falling branches or structural damage. A professional tree surgeon can thin or reshape trees to improve health, appearance, and safety.

8. Post-Storm Damage

Following a storm, even trees that appear intact may have suffered hidden damage, such as cracks, splintering, or weakened branches. A post-storm inspection by a professional tree surgeon can catch these issues early, helping you avoid costly damage or safety risks in future storms. Our 24-hour emergency callout service ensures your peace of mind, particularly after storms.

9. Pests and Insect Damage

Pests such as aphids, scale insects, and wood-boring beetles are common tree threats in East Sussex. Signs like sticky residue (honeydew), holes in bark or leaves, and sawdust-like frass at the tree’s base are clear indicators that pests may be at work. Professional care ensures infestations are identified and managed quickly, preventing them from spreading to other trees.

10. Overgrown or Unbalanced Canopy

If your tree’s canopy has grown too large, looks uneven, or is blocking light to your garden, it may benefit from professional pruning. Maintaining the right shape not only improves appearance but also promotes healthy growth and reduces the risk of limb failure. This is one of the most overlooked signs your tree needs professional care, but it can have a major impact on long-term health.

Don’t Ignore the Signs

Recognising the signs your tree needs professional care is the first step to keeping your garden safe and beautiful. Whether your tree is showing clear signs of distress or you simply want peace of mind, Troy’s Tree and Hedge Services can help.

With over seven years’ experience, NPTC-qualified tree surgeons, and advanced equipment, we offer expert tree care, pruning, removal, and stump grinding across Eastbourne, Uckfield, Brighton, and the wider East Sussex area.

If I’m not up a tree, I’m eager to chat!

Ready for healthier, happier trees? Let’s chat about how our expert team can help. Whether it’s care, maintenance, or anything else, we’re here to help.

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