Fall in Wisconsin brings colorful leaves, cooler temperatures, and plenty of outdoor cleanup. While you are raking leaves and preparing your property for winter, it is also a great time to take a closer look at your trees.

A fall tree inspection can help identify damaged branches, signs of disease, structural concerns, and other potential problems before winter weather arrives. Addressing these issues early may help protect your trees, your home, and the rest of your property when snow, ice, and strong winter winds arrive.

Here are some of the most important things to look for when inspecting your trees this fall.

Look for Dead or Damaged Branches

Once leaves begin to fall, it can become easier to see the structure of your trees and identify branches that appear dead, cracked, broken, or damaged.

Weak branches can become a concern during winter. The additional weight of snow and ice, combined with strong winds, can cause compromised limbs to break and fall.

If you notice questionable branches, a professional tree trimming company can help address potential hazards before winter weather puts additional stress on the tree.

Check for Signs of Disease

Fall is also a good opportunity to look for signs that a tree may be unhealthy. Symptoms can vary depending on the type of tree and the underlying problem, but homeowners should watch for unusual discoloration, premature leaf loss, dead branches, fungal growth, cracks, or areas of decay.

Not every unusual-looking tree needs to be removed. However, identifying problems early gives you an opportunity to determine the appropriate next step.

Regular inspections combined with proper tree care and trimming can help maintain healthy trees and identify concerns before they become larger problems.

Inspect the Trunk

Do not focus only on the branches. Take a look at the trunk as well.

Large cracks, cavities, areas of decay, loose bark, or other visible damage can sometimes indicate structural problems. A tree that looks healthy from a distance may have weaknesses that become more apparent when inspected closely.

This is especially important for trees located near your home, driveway, garage, power lines, or areas where people regularly spend time.

If a tree appears severely damaged or potentially unstable, it may be time to consider professional tree removal services.

Pay Attention to Leaning Trees

Some trees naturally grow at an angle and may remain healthy and stable for many years. A tree that has recently started leaning, however, deserves attention.

Look at the ground surrounding the tree. Raised or disturbed soil near the roots, exposed roots, or a noticeable change in the tree’s position can be signs of instability.

A potentially hazardous tree should be evaluated before heavy snow, ice, and winter storms increase the risk of failure.

Look Up Before Winter Arrives

Homeowners naturally spend a lot of time looking at what is happening at ground level, but when inspecting your property, remember to look up.

Are large branches hanging over your roof? Are there dead limbs above your driveway? Do branches appear too close to structures or other areas of your property?

Addressing problematic limbs before winter can reduce potential hazards and help keep trees properly maintained. For more information, read our blog, “Why Trimming Your Trees is Important”.

Do Not Forget About Old Stumps

While inspecting your trees, take note of any old stumps remaining from previous tree removals.

Tree stumps can interfere with mowing and landscaping, create tripping hazards, and take up valuable space in your yard. Decaying stumps may also attract insects or become an unwanted eyesore.

Fall can be a good time to tackle these lingering projects. Professional stump grinding services can remove unwanted stumps and leave you with a cleaner, more usable property.

You can also learn more in our “Why You Should Remove Tree Stumps Instead of Leaving Them”  blog.

Think About the Entire Property

A fall tree inspection can also reveal areas of your property that have become overgrown. Unwanted trees, brush, stumps, and vegetation can make portions of your land difficult to access or use.

If you are planning improvements for next spring, fall may be a good time to begin thinking about lot clearing services and how clearing overgrown areas could create more usable space.

When Should You Call a Professional?

Some tree problems are easy to spot. Others are not. You should consider contacting a professional if you notice large dead branches, significant cracks, decay, a newly leaning tree, damaged limbs near your home, or a tree that appears unstable.

Tree work can also be dangerous, particularly when it involves large trees, heavy branches, heights, or structures. Instead of attempting potentially hazardous trimming or removal yourself, an experienced tree service can determine the appropriate approach and use the proper equipment to complete the work safely.

Prepare Your Trees for a Wisconsin Winter

Wisconsin winters can be tough on trees. Snow, ice, wind, and fluctuating temperatures can put additional stress on branches and trees that are already weakened.

Taking time to inspect your trees in the fall gives you an opportunity to address potential problems before winter arrives.

Red Pine Tree and Landscape Services provides tree trimming and removal, stump grinding, lot clearing, and finish grading services throughout Waukesha County and surrounding areas.

If you notice damaged branches, questionable trees, or other concerns around your property this fall, contact Red Pine Tree and Landscaping Services to have your property ready for the season ahead.