Common Tree Defects and Recommendations

Fungi or mushrooms
Check canopy for changes in foliage size and density. Check the canopy for dieback and increased percentage of dead wood. Call an Arborist to Identify and treat the fungi.

Unstable or loose in the ground
Cordon off the area to restrict pedestrian access. Call an Arborist or Emergency Services to make the tree safe.

Cavities, cracks or hollows
Small cavities or hollows are not usually a problem. But where there are cracks or large hollows call an Arborist to determine their extent and if the trees structural integrity has been compromised.

Wounds/damage to the trunk or limbs
Mechanical damage or wounds from torn branches are not usually immediate hazards. However, if left unattended they can become an open invitation for fungi or insects. Best to call an Arborist to perform some basic tree surgery so the wound heals properly.

Tree leaning or unbalanced
Your tree may have a natural lean as it grows for the light or may have been pruned on one side so it is unbalanced. A leaning tree is more susceptible to gravity. If a leaning or unbalanced tree is over a high target area or has a poor root structure, pruning, tree bracing, removal or moving of the target may be required.

Bulging of the trunk
Trees put on extra wood around weak areas to strengthen them for support. Bulging areas in a tree trunk or branch may be an indication of internal hollows or decay.

Multiple stems
Trees grow by putting new wood on the outside of their stems. Multiple stems growing close together create internal cracks and they also push each other apart, with weaker stems often splitting out. Pruning out of less dominant stems is recommended.

Long heavy branches
Tree branches can weigh more than a tonne. Huge forces are created at branch attachment points. We recommend reduction pruning to reduce end weight of limbs.

Dense heavy canopy
A dense canopy acts as a sail to the wind, creating a lot of force on a tree. We recommend pruning to thin the canopy on susceptible trees.

Storm Damage
Most of the tree is hard to see from the ground. We recommend an aerial inspection by a tree climber or elevated work platform to assess defects in the canopy after severe weather events.

Dead branches
Dead wood is a food source for pathogens. It is also a hazard to people underneath. We recommend pruning trees to remove major accessible dead wood.

Termites nest
Termites, bees or wildlife nests indicate hollows in the tree. A pest inspector or Arborist should inspect the tree to determine the size of the defect. Any work on moving wildlife should be done in accordance with local environmental regulations and in consultation with the relevant wildlife welfare group.

Does the tree overhang your house?
Trees are like any other asset you own. Just like your cars or home, they also require care and maintenance. We recommend reduction pruning of heavy lateral limbs and deadwood that overhang your house.