There are potentially a few hazards in your garden, but a leaning tree might be one of the most dangerous, especially if its root structure is compromised. But how far can a tree lean before it falls?
The team from Green Acres Tree Service, your go-to tree services in Putney, GA, explains more in this post.
Why Do Trees Start to Lean
Most trees want to grow straight up, as it’s the easiest way to soak up the sunshine. However, there are many factors that can change that. Most of the time, learning that takes place gradually is okay. If it happens overnight or quickly, you need to call an arborist for a fall risk assessment.
1. Growth Patterns
What happens when the best source of light is slightly to the side rather than directly up? This is the perfect recipe for leaning trees. The difference between this and a potentially hazardous tree is that the tilting takes place over a long period. If this is the case, simply make sure the trunk is healthy.
2. Environmental Stressors
If the tree suddenly starts to lean over, this poses a problem. This trunk instability can be due to:
- Poor soil condition and erosion
- Excessive moisture
- Intense winds
3. Root System Issues
The tree’s roots determine how stable the tree is. If rot sets in or the root system is too shallow, the tree could topple over. It might do the same if there is excessive moisture in the soil, because then there is nothing for the roots to physically hold on to.
This is the most serious issue and is likely to require the removal of the tree.
4. Unbalanced Branches
Have you been a little too enthusiastic about trimming on one side? Or maybe you’ve not bothered to prune your tree for years. In either case, the tree can become top-heavy or more heavily weighted on one side than the other. This can cause an imbalance, affecting the plant’s stability.
How Far is Too Far?
So, how far can a tree lean before it falls? If it has a leaning angle of more than 15 degrees, it’s at a high risk of falling, especially during storm season. You should call an arborist urgently.
Do call us if you notice:
- A significant lean, especially if it seemed to happen overnight
- The root system starts to lift out of the ground
- An imbalance in the branches
- A change in tree stability
Preventative Care
You can reduce the risk of leaning by having annual inspections performed by a qualified arborist. They’ll make sure your tree is in good health and conduct regular pruning and soil management. They can also provide your tree with the support it needs to start straightening up again.
Contact Us Today for Expert Advice!
Now that you can answer, “How far can a tree lean before it falls?” it’s time to take action. Start by reading about the dangers of curved trees, or skip ahead and call Green Acres Tree Service at 229-881-2538 to schedule a consultation today.
