tree inspection

Why Regular Tree Inspections Are Crucial for Every Tree Owner

by with No Comment General Tree-Related Tips

Do you have several trees in your yard that look beautiful and provide essential shade? Consider scheduling regular tree inspections to help care for them.

As the top-ranking tree service experts in Dover, MA, Brooke Tree Service remains passionate about caring for your trees and protecting your home. With regular inspections, we can help you avoid any serious or expensive issues.

tree inspection

The Important Benefits of Regularly Inspecting Trees

Regular inspection is an essential part of caring for trees. In general, you should schedule an inspection every three years, which grants your trees and property the following benefits:

  • Prevents major problems: When you schedule an arborist assessment, they can detect minor problems with tree structure and health before they become serious. Early intervention can save your trees and help you avoid spending serious money on removing them.
  • Maintains property value: Unhealthy trees drag down property value both because they look bad and they pose a safety risk. When potential buyers see you care for their trees, they’ll feel comfortable offering you a higher price.
  • Avoids liabilities: If your tree falls and injures someone or damages property, you’re liable for damages if you didn’t properly care for your tree. Documenting regular tree inspections means you can file a successful insurance claim if anything happens.
  • Improves tree health: Trees provide oxygen, beauty, and a home for animals essential to the local ecosystem. Keeping them healthy benefits the entire community and inspections keep them strong and living longer.
  • Saves money: With reduced liability and avoiding major issues, investing in inspections saves you money in the long term.

What Happens During Tree Inspections?

When you schedule an inspection for your tree, it includes the following components:

  • A branch structure analysis helps determine whether your tree needs pruning or trimming.
  • With root system inspection an arborist can assess the health of your roots and whether they pose a hazard to surrounding structures or trees.
  • During tree risk assessment the expert identifies whether your tree has a vulnerability to serious problems.
  • With disease identification, an arborist can determine the best course of treatment for unhealthy trees.
  • After a tree health evaluation, you’ll have the confidence of knowing your trees are in great condition or will get there soon with help.

Signs You Need Tree Inspections

How do you know you need an inspection before the standard three-year period?

  • Unhealthy branches: If you notice rotting or brittle branches, schedule an inspection.
  • Fungus: If you see fungus growing on your tree, it likely has a disease that needs assessment.
  • Damage: Damage to the tree’s trunk or roots won’t necessarily doom your tree provided you address the issue early.
  • Leaning: If you notice a tree leans farther than before, scheduling an inspection can help fortify it so it doesn’t fall over.

Schedule Tree Care Services Today

When you need a reliable tree inspection, reach out to Brooke Tree Service. Whether you’re wondering about the best time to hire tree service or need emergency service to remove a hazardous tree, we complete every job efficiently and for a competitive price. Call (508) 613-5044 to receive your free estimate and learn more.

what is an arborist

What Is an Arborist, and Why Do You Need One in Natick, MA?

by with No Comment General Tree-Related Tips

What is an arborist? Do you really need to consult with a tree care specialist before planting, trimming, or removing trees on your property? The experts at Brooke Tree Service are here to answer these questions and more.

We’re a reputable tree service company in Natick that deals with a wide range of arbor issues. Find out how our arborists on staff approach everything from tree disease diagnosis to tree removal and more.

what is an arborist

Arborists Are Tree Experts Who Handle Several Tasks

No one knows more about arboriculture than professional arborists. These urban forestry experts focus on tree health management from the time you first plant a seed to well past the time the tree fully matures. Arborists serve as tree doctors who can identify issues like diseases, fungal infections, and pest infestations and then treat them appropriately. 

They also provide guidance for a wide range of other tree care services, including:

  • Tree pruning and trimming
  • Tree removal
  • Stump grinding
  • Soil testing and fertilization

Arborists must study their craft for years and earn the proper certification before they can bring their expertise to communities. 

Key Components of Arborist Consultations

What is an arborist’s role when you contact them for a consultation? Natick property owners can expect certified arborists to focus on the following aspects of tree health during a consultation. 

Tree Disease Diagnosis

Various tree species can decay rapidly if a disease takes over. Arborists know how to recognize the signs of a tree disease and act quickly to treat it and minimize the damage. 

Tree Health Management

Some trees don’t grow due to malnourished soil, water intake, or other issues. Let a professional inspect your vegetation and recommend tips for helping it reach its full growth potential. Arborists will monitor a tree’s health and continue to provide tips to property owners. 

Assessing Safety Risks

If a tree starts leaning toward your home, call an arborist. They’ll evaluate the tree’s condition and the safety risks it poses. Hazardous trees often need to come down for your safety. 

Even if a tree doesn’t appear dangerous to you, it could be decaying and at risk of falling over. An arborist will take the guesswork out of safety assessments and recommend the best course of action. 

Why You Need an Arborist

Consult an arborist before you make any changes to the trees on your property. DIY pruning or tree removal can have dire consequences if you don’t have the proper training. Experts understand the best way to perform basic tree services and can even help with planting to ensure your tree thrives in its environment. 

Meet With an Arborist Near You – Contact Brooke Tree Service

Stop wondering, “What is an arborist and do I really need one?” The specialists at Brooke Tree Service have the proper certification to handle projects that amateurs can’t. We know how to cut leaning trees on your property, trim branches to promote growth, and much more.

If you need a reliable arborist in Natick, MA, give us a call at (508) 613-5044. Learn more now.

how to tell if a tree is overwatered or underwatered

How To Tell if a Tree Is Overwatered or Underwatered in Sherborn, MA

by with No Comment General Tree-Related Tips

If you want a tree to grow up to be old and reliable, you’ll need to start it off strong with proper watering. Too much or too little water will cause trees to have several problems. If allowed to persist, these problems will eventually kill the trees.

The experts at Brook Tree Service are your trusted tree specialists in Sherborn. We can show you how to tell if a tree is overwatered or underwatered and help you bring incorrectly watered trees back to good health.

how to tell if a tree is overwatered or underwatered

How To Check the Soil for Moisture

Your trees may have physical symptoms revealing how much water they receive, but the soil reveals a lot.

The easiest way is to take a 6-inch dowel, screwdriver, or garden stake and drive it into the ground. If you can’t get very far, the soil is too dry. Moist soil will allow it to pass through fairly easily, and wet soil will be very easy, albeit a bit squishy.

For a clear picture of what’s happening, dig a small hole about 7 inches deep. The soil should be cool and moist. You should be able to roll it into a ball and break it apart, but this may not always work since sandy soil won’t hold together and clay soil will be sticky.

Symptoms of an Overwatered Tree

Trees need water, but don’t overdo it. Too much water will suffocate the roots by restricting the flow of oxygen. You’ll know you’re overwatering your trees if:

  • The soil around the tree is always muddy or puddling with excess water
  • Green leaves break easily
  • New growth is yellow or light green
  • New growth withers and dies

How To Resolve Overwatering

Don’t water your tree for about two weeks to allow the excess water to soak into the soil. Check the soil’s moisture to determine when to water again.

If it rains during this time, watch to see where water collects. If it collects at the base of the tree, add compost to the top few inches of soil to create better drainage. Consider rerouting rain spouts if they direct water toward your trees.

Symptoms of an Underwatered Tree

Underwatered trees may be easier to spot and might be more common as temperatures rise. You’ll notice:

  • Curled leaves with brown tips
  • Leaves turning yellow or brown
  • The tree canopy thinning out
  • Leaves dropping early, possibly in summer

How To Resolve Underwatering

Slow and deep watering will be more effective than quick and shallow. Water at the base of the tree, and be mindful of how much water drains away. You may need to use compost or mulch to retain moisture.

The Right Way To Water a Tree

Knowing how to tell if a tree is overwatered or underwatered is key to watering correctly.

Only water the ground so the roots can get all the water. Trunks and leaves won’t benefit from being wet, and may even develop diseases because of it.

Ensure your tree has properly draining soil to control overwatering and underwatering. Water will be able to reach the roots deep in the ground while excess water can drain away.

Dig up and observe your soil to determine if it’s sandy, loamy, or clay. Sandy soil drains quickly and needs to be watered more often, while clay soil holds onto more water and shouldn’t be watered as often. Loamy soil is ideal because it’s the middle option between the two.

Brooke Tree Service Is Here To Help

We’re tree professionals who can help you understand how tree roots get into pipes, how to tell if a tree is overwatered or underwatered, and everything in between. Call us at (508) 613-5044 for all your tree needs.

tree protection during construction

What to Use for Tree Protection During Construction

by with No Comment General Tree-Related Tips
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Construction projects can take a heavy toll on your trees so you need to take protective measures to minimize damage and ensure your trees’ long-term health and safety.  

As the go-to tree specialists in Dover, Brooke Tree Service explains how to protect your trees during construction and what to use.  

tree protection during construction

Types of Construction-related Tree Damage  

Construction and landscaping projects can easily injure tree branches, trunks, or major roots which leaves trees damaged, stressed, or no longer stable after project completion. Common types of tree damage you might expect from a construction project include:  

  • Cut or damaged tree root system  
  • Sudden changes to tree exposure  
  • Broken and damaged branches and trunks  
  • Changes to soil levels  
  • Soil compaction  

Protective Structures and Materials  

Certified arborists receive specialized training in ways to prevent construction-related tree damage and can help you understand the necessary scope and types of protection for your project.   

Before kicking off your project, hire a tree care expert to visit the site, evaluate the conditions, and recommend the types of protection measures best suited for particular situations.   

Generally, what you use for protection should be sturdy and highly visible. Recommended measures for tree protection during construction include:  

  • Protective fencing  
  • Warning signs  
  • Wood barriers  
  • Thick layers of mulch or straw over the soil  

Since heavy equipment can cause significant damage to tree roots during construction, ask your arborist to explain the best practices for preserving them.   

For trees less than four years old, ensure barriers reach at least the drip line to protect the roots from compaction. For all other trees, we recommend that you install the barrier one foot from the trunk for every inch in diameter of the trunk.  

When you install a barrier, remember to check the area inside for appropriate water amounts and soil health. Keep the ground moist and top up deficient nutrients if necessary. 

Remember to work with your contractor to ensure that the construction crew uses excavation and trenching methods that preserve roots wherever possible. You also want to maintain clear communication throughout the project.  

If possible, visit the construction site regularly and document the construction procedures and tree protection measures. An arborist can help ensure the construction team sets up everything correctly and identify any early signs of deteriorating tree health or productivity. 

What to Guard Against  

Knowing what to guard your trees against helps you prepare better tree protection during construction. Common issues you want to guard against include:   

  • Bark removal  
  • Surface grading too close to the tree  
  • Trenching near the tree trunk  

Trust Your Local Tree Care Experts  

Now that you know a few tips about tree protection during construction, look no further than Brooke Tree Service when you need professional advice and the following services:   

  • Tree trimming and pruning  
  • Tree planting  
  • Tree removal  
  • Arborist services  

Are you unsure what to do with a dead tree in your yard? Contact us immediately to assess the situation and recommend the best course of action.  

Call Brooke Tree Service at (508) 613-5044 to get your free estimate for tree service in Dover, MA. 

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how do tree roots get into pipes

How Do Tree Roots Get Into Pipes?

by with No Comment General Tree-Related Tips

How do tree roots get into pipes? Whether you have a mature specimen or a recently planted sapling on your property, this concern has likely crossed your mind.

As one of the best tree specialists in Medway, our team at Brooke Tree Service knows a thing or two about strategic planting and maintenance. Keep reading as we share some insights on root behavior and help you create a landscape harmonious with your property.

how do tree roots get into pipes

Why Trees Love Sewer Lines

Some sewer lines develop small cracks or loose joints over time and allow vapor or moisture to seep out. Tree roots, which are always on the lookout for water and nutrients, are incredibly adept at finding these breaches.

They naturally gravitate towards it and eventually infiltrate the pipes through the cracks. As the roots grow, they can cause significant blockages and even damage the system further.

Watch Out for These Red Flags

How do tree roots get into pipes? The better question is, how can you tell it’s happening when your plumbing lies several feet below the ground? You might not see the roots grow into the pipeline directly, but you can still detect its side effects:

  • Slow drains: Do you notice your sinks and tubs taking longer to drain? Root intrusion can cause water to flow out more slowly than usual.
  • Unpleasant odors: If you catch whiffs of something foul around your yard, you might have sewer line damage.
  • Gurgling noises: Strange sounds coming from your drains indicate air getting forced through the water due to restricted flow.
  • Frequent backups: Raw waste spilling into your home or office isn’t just messy and inconvenient; it’s also a health hazard. Maybe it’s time to call a professional plumber.
  • Uneven yard growth: Do you see unusually green and dense patches of grass in your lawn? Leaking sewer lines provide extra nutrients and cause flora above to grow more vigorously.

Preventing a Plumbing Disaster

Most arborists advise planting trees a safe distance away (at least 10 feet) from underground structures. They may also recommend varieties with shallow root systems less likely to seek out and invade your plumbing. Excellent options include amur maples, flowering dogwoods, and fringe trees.

You should also partner up with a local plumber to inspect your sewer lines regularly. Routine checkups can catch minor issues before they become bigger headaches. Why risk an expensive and inconvenient repair when a little proactive care goes a long way?

Your Go-To Tree Specialists in Medway, MA?

How do tree roots get into pipes? If you have more questions, Brooke Tree Service has you covered. Our crew loves to give practical advice that helps you maintain a beautiful and hazard-free landscape.

We can also provide a swift tree removal when you have one growing only a few feet away from the sewer line. Err on the side of caution and reach out to us before the tree’s roots become an issue.

Dial (508) 613-5044, or read our blog and learn the causes of a dead tree. Discover more today.

common tree types

6 Common Tree Types in Holliston, MA

by with No Comment General Tree-Related Tips

Massachusetts is a beautiful place. From the ocean to the foothills, it’s hard not to appreciate the arboreal life that makes this state so breathtaking. 

Depending a bit on your definition of a “tree,” Massachusetts is home to more than 80 species, some of which came from other continents. 

As highly rated tree specialists in Holliston, we get plenty of opportunities to see beautiful trees. Seriously, every other hill looks like the front of a postcard, and we have the state’s diverse plant life to thank for that. Let’s look at the six most common tree types!

common tree types

1. Norway Maple

Three guesses where this tree first came from. These trees are easily identifiable by their vibrant, lobed leaves — green in the summer and bright red or yellow in the winter. Each stands between 60 and 100 feet tall, which is great for shade. They have difficulty growing in western climates, making them unique to the northeast. 

2. American Beech

Another popular tree species is the American beech, especially in sloped and rocky areas. If you’ve ever gone backpacking, you’ve probably hiked past groves of them. You’ve also probably sat on one, too. The beech tree’s sturdy woodgrain makes it popular as both furniture and firewood. 

3. Eastern White Pine

This pine tree is one of the most common native types of trees in Holliston. It’s also the tallest, with some reaching up to 200 feet in height!  Eastern white pines are also incredibly long-lived; some in Wells State Park are believed to be older than the United States. If you own an older home, these were also likely used to build it.

4. Red Maple

One of the most well-known tree varieties is the humble red maple. This native tree species is also one of the most frequently planted trees in the area. You can probably guess why: when appropriately tapped, it produces maple syrup. This type of maple is identifiable by its distinctive, five-pronged leaves.

5. Black Cherry

Also known by its tastier name, the whisky cherry, this is one of the most common trees in Holliston and can be seen all over Massachusetts. Interestingly, it’s also made its way over to parts of northern Europe. You can spot this tree by its signature black cherries, which are safe to eat when adequately pitted. Just be sure to keep it away from any pets or animals. 

6. Pitch Pine

You can spot this tree with its large, stiff pine needles. It also produces a lot of resin, giving it a golden waxy coating during hotter parts of the year. The pitch pine was historically used by native Iroquois tribes to treat various injuries, like cuts, boils, and burns. 

Seek Assistance From Tree Experts in Holliston, MA

Brooke Tree Service is your go-to tree expert in Holliston. We’re your source for answers when you need to identify, remove, or replant any common tree types on your property. We’ve even got you if you wonder how long trees take to grow.

Call Brooke Tree Service at (508) 613-5044 today for answers, estimates, or jobs about any trees on your property. 

why is the bark falling off my tree

Why Is the Bark Falling off my Tree in Holliston, MA?

by with No Comment General Tree-Related Tips

How closely do you look at your trees? Would you notice if some of the bark had begun to fall off more than it did before? You may wonder whether that’s one of the many signs that a tree is dying, and you’d be right a lot of the time, but not always.

Why is the bark falling off my tree? Below are a few considerations from Brooke Tree Service’s trusted tree specialists in Holliston, Massachusetts.

why is the bark falling off my tree

Is Peeling Tree Bark a Bad Sign?

Why is the bark falling off my tree? Peeling bark is a bad sign, and you have good reason to feel concerned. Still, depending on the species of your tree, bark peeling off tree trunks may just be a natural shedding process. 

When you evaluate your tree, pay close attention to the bark that’s still attached to your tree. If there’s plenty of healthy bark around, then the tree bark shedding causes may be due to natural cycles. 

Has the tree bark fallen off due to insects, infection, or severe weather? These are symptoms to watch out for if you’d like to monitor and protect your tree’s health.

Peeling Tree Bark Issues

Understanding tree bark problems is the first step toward getting your tree a proper diagnosis. If you investigate and notice bark deterioration on trees that you own, also look for fungi, which indicates that rotting has begun.

A tree professional can help with your diagnosis and the tree’s treatment plan. Here are some signs that your tree needs help:

  • Heat: Is the bark shedding more after extreme heat? Your tree may be in trouble. Heat waves cause cracks in an unhealthy tree with not enough water.
  • Cold: Just like with heat, if you notice bark peeling during the colder temperatures exclusively, you may need to schedule a consultation with a tree expert. Sudden temperature drops take a toll on an unhealthy tree, causing the bark to drop.
  • Cankers: If you notice cankers on your tree in addition to bark peeling, your tree may need a specialist’s help. Cankers are a clear sign of tree stress. When paired with bark peeling, this can spell trouble for your tree.
  • Dead twigs, branches, and leaves: One of the most common signs that your tree needs help is more leaf and branch litter all around its base. In addition to peeling bark, if you notice any dead twigs or leaves around your tree out of the fall season, it may be dying.

Learn More From Your Local Tree Experts

Now that you know all the reasons for tree bark falling off and which ones you can avoid, why not get your help from the best tree people in the Holliston area? With Brooke Tree Service, you get straight answers about whether a tree is dying and how you can support the tree’s growth. Get the answer to “Why is the bark falling off my tree?” and more by calling us at 508-613-5044 today.

can a tree with carpenter ants be saved

Can a Tree With Carpenter Ants Be Saved

by with No Comment General Tree-Related Tips

Many homeowners see carpenter ants around their trees and panic for good reasons. The ants are notoriously destructive, and they spread very quickly. In that situation, you’ll ask, “Can a tree with carpenter ants be saved?” Can infested trees be rescued?

In this post, your trusted tree specialists in Holliston will tell you if you’re right to worry or if there’s still hope for your tree.

can a tree with carpenter ants be saved

Understanding the Relationship Between Carpenter Ants and Trees

Many people associate carpenter ants with termites, but their similarity ends in their social behavior. Carpenter ants are invasive species that can grow up to half an inch. Their colonies can contain up to 10,000 individual ants. 

When a colony is mature, some of the younger ants will move to start a satellite colony. 

A major distinction between termites and carpenter ants is that the latter doesn’t feed on wood. Their diet consists of insects, pet food, syrup, and honeydew from aphids. 

So why are they on your trees? They only use the tree as a shelter or nesting place. Unfortunately, this means boring into the wood. 

Another important point to keep in mind is that carpenter ants cannot build a nest in healthy trees. They often need an entry through a diseased part of the tree. Preserving trees affected by carpenter ants is difficult because you’re dealing with extensive disease most of the time.

The Probability of Saving Trees with Carpenter Ants

So, can a tree with carpenter ants be saved? The right answer here is, “It depends.” Factors that will determine if you can save your tree from carpenter ants include the following:

The Tree’s Health Status

Remember, carpenter ants don’t nest in healthy trees. So, to determine if you can save the tree, you have to evaluate the tree’s health. Check for wood rot, disease, and injuries to the tree. 

The Extent of the Damage 

If you can see the signs of rot or disease, the next step is to check how far the damage has gone. Is it an issue you can solve with strategic pruning or other methods of disease treatment? Saving trees infested with carpenter ants typically involves treating the underlying disease.

 If the disease has already impacted the heart of the wood, it’s likely too late.

Similarly, you have to evaluate the level of damage the ants have caused with their nesting. 

How to Eliminate Carpenter Ant Colonies

Treatment for trees with carpenter ants can only work after eliminating the colony.

Some of the options for rescuing trees from carpenter ant infestation include the following:

  • Use of baits. Carpenter ants feeding on the bait and taking them into the colony to the queen increases the probability of long-term control.
  • Use of insecticides. Insecticides can decimate the ant population. However, it’s hard to get enough of it into the colony to reach the queen and stop reproduction. 

Get a Professional Evaluation for Your Tree

For a definitive answer to “Can a tree with carpenter ants be saved?” order tree health evaluations from your local experts.

Call Brooke Tree Service in Holliston, MA, today at (508) 613-5044 to schedule a consultation.

subsidence caused by trees

Understanding the Subsidence Caused by Trees

by with No Comment General Tree-Related Tips

Few features elevate an exterior property’s appearance more than large breathtaking trees. However, sometimes trees can cause subsidence that can damage your home or business and weaken its structural integrity. Unfortunately, many Natick property owners don’t understand subsidence caused by trees or how to resolve it once it occurs. 

That’s why Brooke Tree Service developed a guide explaining everything you need to know about subsidence caused by trees.

Brooke Tree Service is Natick, Massachusetts’ number one choice for professional tree care and arborist services. If you need experienced tree removal experts in Natick, MA, who can handle even the most complex projects without issue, contact Brooke Tree Service.

subsidence caused by trees

What Is Subsidence?

Subsidence describes unbalanced foundations due to natural occurrences. It occurs when the ground shifts underneath your property, displacing it from its original location. This often creates extensive damage that significantly depletes your home’s structural integrity, life expectancy, and more. 

Cracks along your property’s foundation are a telltale sign of subsidence. These cracks are typically around three millimeters thick and appear wider at the top and become slimmer towards the bottom. They can develop along the interior and exterior and usually occur around doors and windows.

Other signs of subsidence include:

  • Creased wallpaper just before it meets the ceiling 
  • Cracks between an extension and the home
  • Warped window and door frames, causing them to stick

Can Trees Cause Subsidence?

Large trees too close to residential or commercial properties often cause subsidence due to their thriving root systems, especially in urban areas. Their roots can grow underneath a home or business, slowly shifting the soil until subsidence occurs.

What Increases the Chances of Subsidence in Natick? 

The soil type, tree variety, and age of the home often determine the chances of subsidence and its severity. 

Soil

Clay soil increases the likelihood of subsidence caused by trees. When tree roots absorb moisture within clay soil, the soil shrinks and shifts. This generates subsidence, especially when a drought follows heavy rain.

The Property’s Age

Homes built before 1950 are extremely vulnerable to subsidence since they have shallower foundations. Fortunately, most modern homes won’t experience subsidence due to their deep foundations.

Tree Variety

Large trees with extensive root systems are more likely to cause subsidence than smaller trees. Below are some common tree varieties that cause subsidence:

  • Oak Trees
  • Willow Trees
  • Poplar Trees
  • Ash Trees

Keep in mind that these are the tree species most likely to cause subsidence. Any tree can create subsidence if they have large enough root systems.

Contact Brooke Tree Service for Exceptional Tree Care in Natick, Massachusetts

If your Natick, Massachusetts property experiences subsidence caused by trees, contact Brooke Tree Service. Our tree removal specialists will eradicate the tree without delay and prevent further property damage. Whether you need help removing tree roots or want professional pruning services, Brooke Tree Service has you covered.

Give Brooke Tree Service a call at (508) 613-5044 and see what our team can do for your Natick, Massachusetts, property today!

how much wind can a tree withstand

How Much Wind Can a Tree Withstand?

by with No Comment General Tree-Related Tips

Trees are resilient and can stand up to significant abuse from the elements. However, this doesn’t mean they aren’t indestructible–any tree can break in the wind if it’s strong enough. The question is, how much wind can a tree withstand?

Read on for a deeper look into a tree’s wind resistance capabilities, as advised by Dover’s trusted tree service company.

how much wind can a tree withstand

 

What Does Science Say About Tree Wind Resistance?

Since the cyclone that swept across the southwest of France in 2009, scientists have pointed out that trees of different diameters, heights, and electric properties can break at the same time. These studies infer that it’s the high wind speed that causes a tree to break, not the tree’s characteristics or size. 

For many years, scientists believed that trees were prone to breaking at wind speeds of 94 mph. However, in 2016, Ecole Polytechnique and ESPCI ParisTech’s study confirmed that all trees break at wind speeds of just 90 mph.

Factors Affecting Tree’s Wind Resistance

How much wind can a tree withstand beyond this? Its longevity will depend on several factors that play a role in your tree’s structural integrity, such as:

Soil Structure

The soil upon which a tree grows determines how much wind it can withstand. For instance, your tree will have a higher wind resistance in dense, clay-based soil than in loose, sandy soil. 

Additionally, compacted soils provide fewer pockets for roots and water. A tree will have a hard time developing a deep, dense root system in such conditions. As such, it’ll be more likely to succumb to strong winds. 

Root System

The depth and density of your tree’s root system play an integral role in its wind resistance. If your tree has shallow roots, it’ll be less stable and more prone to uprooting. A denser root system will provide stronger support for a much higher wind resistance.  

The Tree’s Age and Health

The older a tree grows, the taller and less flexible it becomes. This makes it more prone to wind damage. A disease or pest infestation will also worsen the situation!

Three Main Ways a Tree Can Break Under Strong Winds

  • Uprooting. If your tree has decaying roots or grows in a water-logged ground, it’ll often uproot in intense wind storms, a phenomenon known as windthrow. 
  • Snapping. In the unlikely event that the roots remain intact at wind speeds above 94 mph, the tree’s trunk is likely to snap due to bending or torsion. This applies to all tree species, regardless of their size.
  • Breaking boughs. Strong winds may cause your tree’s main branches to break. 

Contact Your Local Tree Experts for Assistance

Just how much wind can a tree withstand? Learn more when you chat to our go-to local arborist at Brooke Tree Service. Whether you want to know how canopy density affects wind resistance or something less complicated, you can count on us for answers.

We provide a wide range of services, including:

  • Tree planting
  • Tree removal
  • Tree trimming & pruning

Contact Brooke Tree Service at (508) 613-5044 today for an estimate or to learn the significance of a professional tree removal service.