Trees are a beautiful part of any Sevierville property—providing shade, privacy, and a sense of natural charm. But when trees become overgrown or diseased, they can quickly shift from asset to liability. Knowing when a tree needs trimming or removal can save you from costly damage and keep your home and family safe.
Here are the top 5 warning signs that it’s time to call in the experts at Sauls Land Management LLC.
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1. Dead or Hanging Branches: Nature’s Warning Sign
If you notice large dead branches—especially those hanging over your home, driveway, or play area—it’s time for a trim. Dead limbs can fall without warning, especially after a summer storm or heavy wind.
What to look for:
- Brittle, leafless branches
- Cracking sounds during windy weather
- Broken limbs caught in the canopy
Why it matters: Even one large dead branch can cause serious injury or damage. Trimming removes these hazards safely and restores balance to your tree.
2. Leaning Trunks and Cracked Bases: Stability in Question
A slight lean is normal for some trees, but a sudden or exaggerated tilt could signal root failure or soil instability.
Warning signs:
- Exposed roots on one side
- Cracks at the base of the trunk
- Soil mounding or shifting near the tree
In East Tennessee, strong summer storms can tip already unstable trees. If you spot these signs, it may be time for professional tree removal before the next big storm hits.
3. Fungal Growth: More Than Just Cosmetic
Mushrooms growing on the trunk or around the base of a tree are often a sign of internal rot or decay.
Signs to act on:
- Conks (shelf-like fungi) growing from the bark
- Soft, spongy wood
- Foul odors or slime at the base
Decay weakens your tree from the inside out, making it vulnerable to collapse—even if the tree still looks healthy up top.
4. Pest Damage and Hollow Limbs: Silent Tree Killers
Boring insects like carpenter ants, termites, or beetles may be feasting on your tree out of sight.
Clues your tree is under attack:
- Sawdust or holes in the bark
- Hollow sounds when knocking on the trunk
- Wilted or prematurely falling leaves
If you notice pest activity, it’s crucial to bring in a certified arborist before the tree becomes a larger hazard. Sauls Land Management can diagnose and recommend safe treatment or removal.
5. Timing Is Everything: Don’t Wait for the Fall
Many homeowners wait until a tree becomes a problem. But that delay can cost you more in emergency services, property damage, or safety concerns.
Best time to act:
- Late summer and early fall for trimming (trees are less stressed)
- Before storms hit to prevent accidents
- After spotting early signs like those above
Trimming at the right time encourages healthy regrowth and reduces the chances of disease spread. If removal is needed, scheduling it before winter storms arrive is the safest choice.
Don’t Take Chances With Hazard Trees—Call the Local Experts
A compromised tree might look fine on the outside—but inside, it could be one storm away from disaster. At Sauls Land Management LLC, we offer expert tree trimming, removal, and emergency response throughout Sevierville and the surrounding areas.
Call us at (865) 280-0428 or visit our Tree Services page to schedule a tree inspection today.
Let’s keep your yard safe, beautiful, and ready for the next season—one tree at a time.