Unfortunately, trees can develop issues and one in particular is failing branches or the tree itself. Sometimes it is obvious what the problem is, either damage from a vehicle or construction or even bad weather. You may find that fungi develops at the bottom of the tree or on the trunk, which means there may be a form of decay inside. There could be cracking and bulging and even lacerations which can show the decay. Unfortunately, if the tree is around 40% affected, then the tree could be dangerous and should be removed. Decay doesn’t necessarily mean the tree is completely in trouble though. If there is only a small amount and there aren’t any obvious dead areas on the tree or branches, then it may survive.
If the branch load grows beyond the weight capacity of the branch collar then there will be branch failure, resulting in cracking. Pruning the tips of the branches can help reduce this risk, due to lowering the stress of the structure. Sometimes you can tell there is branch failure just from looking, due to how the branches have formed. If they are joined together in a ‘V’ shape then it can retain bark, which can weaken the formation of the branches and get damaged.
Another reason for failure are canker spots, which is where the tree bark and cambium have stopped thriving. Unfortunately, as the tree ages, they won’t change, therefore the tree can become weaker. These can often appear after an accident with gardening or construction equipment, from where it has knocked the tree and created scarring. A professional should come and assess the tree, particularly if there are no obvious reasons why the tree is failing. For tree branch advice call your local tree Surgeon in Wandsworth for a free site visit and quotation.
