5 Indications that Your Tree Is a Safety Hazard

Abundant Tree Care Services • April 16, 2025
A man is climbing up the side of a tree.

Healthy trees provide beauty and environmental benefits, but when they become compromised, they can pose significant risks. A hazardous tree can cause property damage and serious injuries. At Abundant Tree Care Services, our local arborists can identify and safely remove dangerous trees. Here are five signs that your tree might be a safety hazard.


Cracks or Splits in the Trunk

Cracks and splits in the trunk can weaken a tree’s structural integrity, making it more likely to fall. Deep fissures or multiple cracks may indicate internal decay or previous storm damage. If a tree has a significant crack, it may be unstable and prone to collapse. The arborist can assess the extent of the damage and recommend the best course of action.


Leaning with Exposed Roots

A tree that is leaning significantly, particularly if it has recently changed position, is a major red flag. Leaning trees often have compromised root systems, especially if you notice exposed or damaged roots near the base. Soil erosion, storms, or root disease can contribute to instability. If your tree has started tilting and the roots appear disrupted, it may be at risk of toppling over.


Dead/Dying Branches

If you notice large branches that are dead or dying, your tree may be in trouble. Dead limbs can break off unexpectedly, especially during storms or high winds, creating a serious hazard for people, vehicles, and structures nearby. If your tree has a significant number of dead branches, it may be time for professional evaluation to determine if pruning or removal is necessary.


Signs of Fungal Growth or Decay

The presence of fungal growth at the base of a tree can indicate internal decay. Fungi feed on rotting wood, which means the tree’s internal structure may be compromised. Hollow or soft spots in the trunk can also suggest decay, reducing the tree’s ability to withstand storms and high winds. A tree with significant decay should be evaluated to determine whether it poses a risk.


Nearby Structures Are at Risk

Even if a tree appears healthy, its location can make it a hazard. Trees that are too close to buildings or power lines can create safety issues. Branches that extend over roofs or utility lines can break off and cause damage. If your tree is encroaching on a structure or utility line, professional trimming or removal may be necessary.


Tree Removal in De Soto, IL

For expert arborist services in De Soto, Carbondale, and Southern Illinois, contact Abundant Tree Care Services at 618-227-2881. Feel free to give us a call to ask for an estimate!

A white utility truck is cutting a tree with a crane.

What is Urban Tree Service?

By Abundant Tree Care Services • March 15, 2025
Urban tree care is essential for maintaining the health and beauty of trees in city environments. Unlike trees in natural forests, urban trees face unique challenges such as pollution, limited space, soil compaction, and human activity. Proper care ensures that these trees thrive and continue to provide benefits such as shade, improved air quality, and aesthetic appeal. At Abundant Tree Care, we provide expert urban tree care in Southern Illinois. Here’s a short overview of what urban tree care entails. Regular Pruning and Trimming One of the most important aspects of urban tree care is pruning and trimming. Trees in cities often grow near buildings, sidewalks, and roads, making it essential to remove overgrown or hazardous branches. Pruning helps maintain tree structure, prevents property damage, and reduces the risk of falling limbs. It also promotes healthy growth by eliminating dead or diseased branches, allowing the tree to allocate energy to strong limbs. Soil Management and Nutrition Urban trees frequently struggle with poor soil conditions due to compaction, pollution, and a lack of organic matter. Proper soil management includes mulching and fertilization. Arborists may conduct soil tests to determine nutrient deficiencies and apply treatments that promote strong root development. Healthy soil is essential for supporting urban trees and increasing their resilience to environmental stressors. Root Care and Protection Tree roots in urban settings often face challenges due to pavement, underground utilities, and construction activities. Compacted soil and restricted growing space can hinder root development, leading to instability and poor health. Arborists use specialized techniques like root pruning and protective barriers to safeguard roots from damage. Proper root care helps ensure that trees remain structurally sound. Emergency Tree Services Storms, strong winds, and vehicle collisions can cause sudden tree damage, posing safety risks to pedestrians and property. Urban tree care includes emergency services to remove fallen or hazardous trees promptly. Professional arborists assess damage, determine whether a tree can be saved, and safely remove trees that pose immediate dangers. Quick response to tree emergencies helps prevent further damage and keeps urban areas safer. Tree Care in De Soto, IL For arborist services in De Soto , Carbondale, and Southern Illinois, contact Abundant Tree Care Services at  618-227-2881  . Feel free to give us a call to request an estimate!

4 Tips for Choosing the Right Tree for Your Yard

By Abundant Tree Care Services • February 18, 2025
Planting a tree is an investment that can provide shade, beauty, and even increase your property value. However, selecting the right tree for your yard requires careful consideration. From mature size to long-term maintenance, there are many factors to think about. At Abundant Tree Care Services, we can help you choose the ideal trees for your property. Then, we can properly plant them. Here are four tips for choosing the right tree for your yard. Consider Your Growing Conditions Consider your yard’s soil type and drainage. Some trees prefer well-draining soil, while others can tolerate occasional flooding. Sunlight exposure is another key factor—if your yard is mostly shaded, select a tree that thrives in low-light conditions. Matching your tree to your climate and growing conditions will give it the best chance for long-term success. Think About Size and Growth Rate Before selecting a tree, consider how big it will get at full maturity. A tree that seems small when planted may grow to tower over your house or interfere with power lines in just a few years. Fast-growing trees can provide quick shade but may have weaker wood that is prone to breaking in storms. Slower-growing trees may take longer to mature but often develop stronger structures and longer lifespans. Make sure to check both the height and width of a tree at maturity so it fits well within your yard’s space constraints. Choose a Tree with the Right Function Different trees serve different purposes in a yard. If you want shade to cool your home during the summer, a deciduous tree that loses its leaves in winter will allow sunlight to reach your home during colder months. If privacy is your goal, evergreen trees provide year-round screening from neighbors or roadways. Flowering trees add seasonal beauty, while fruit-bearing trees can provide fresh produce. Understanding the primary function you want from your tree will help you make the right choice. Consider Maintenance and Upkeep Some trees require more maintenance than others, so it’s important to choose one that fits your willingness to care for it. Certain species drop large amounts of leaves or seed pods, requiring frequent cleanup. Others may be prone to disease or pests, leading to additional maintenance needs. Selecting a tree with manageable maintenance requirements will save you time and effort in the long run. Tree Planting Services in De Soto, IL For arborist services in De Soto , Carbondale, and Southern Illinois, contact Abundant Tree Care Services at  618-227-2881  . Feel free to give us a call to ask for an estimate!