If your tree is leaning or appears unstable, it's important to address the situation promptly to ensure the safety of you, your family and your property

First, it is worth understanding why trees develop leans. Understanding the specific causes of a tree's lean is crucial for implementing the right corrective measures. If you notice a significant or sudden lean in your tree, we highly recommend you get in touch so that one of our ISA-certified arborists can perform a free on-site assessment of your leaning tree and recommend appropriate interventions. 

Here are some common reasons why trees develop leans: 

Wind Exposure - Persistent winds can lead to the development of a lean in trees. Regular and proactive trimming to thin and balance the canopy can reduce the risk of wind resistance. 

Root Damage or Disease - Compromised root systems due to damage, disease or poor soil conditions can affect a tree's stability and contribute to leaning. Strengthen your tree's root system with our deep root fertilizer. 

Asymmetrical Growth - Uneven growth or damage to one side of the tree can create an imbalance. The same can be said for lopsided canopies. Regular and proactive trimming can help to reduce this risk. 

Pest Infestations - Damage from pests, particularly those targeting the trunk or roots, can contribute to structural issues leading to leans. Read more here.  

When your tree starts leaning or showing signs of instability, it is cause for concern. We're here to guide you through the steps to ensure the safety of you and your family 

Assess the Lean

Examine the Degree and Direction - Carefully assess the degree and direction of the lean. A slight lean might be natural, but a significant tilt indicates potential issues. If this is your first time noticing the lean, get in the habit of taking photos on a regular basis to examine the progression of the lean. Give us a call immediately if you notice a sudden increase in the tilt or degree of lean in the tree.  

Inspect the Base - Check the base of the tree for signs of uprooting, root damage or soil erosion. Issues at the foundation can contribute to instability. If the soil is cracked, dry or loose, it could indicate an urgent need to remove the tree. 

Take Immediate Action

Be Prepared for Removal - In all likelihood, we will provide recommendations to help prevent further leaning, but for the safety of you, your family and your property, removal may be the best option. Be prepared for this suggestion. 

Consider Cabling or Bracing - For young trees, consider providing temporary support using stakes or braces. For more mature trees, avoid attempting this without professional help. Inquire about our Cabling and Bracing services today. 

Give Us a Call - Reach out for a free on-site assessment by one of our ISA-certified arborists. Even if the tree has a slight lean that you've only just noticed, it would be worthwhile to get a professional opinion. Together, we can develop a plan to either bring the tree back to life, or remove it altogether. 

Plan for the Future

Tree Maintenance Program - Reach out today to schedule two yearly in-person visits from one of our ISA-certified arborists. 

Proactive Trimming - Regular trimming helps maintain a balanced canopy and reduces the risk of wind resistance, promoting overall tree stability. 

Deep Root Fertilization - Proper tree fertilization helps ensure that your tree is getting the adequate nutrients it needs to develop a robust, resilient root system.