As leaves fall in November we can see the branching
structure of trees, making this a good time to inspect for tree health. Winter
is an ideal time for tree care and maintenance.
Start looking up at your trees
and see how healthy they are, is the advice of Dr. Robert Polomski, Extension
Specialist at Clemson University and winner of the 2019 GardenComm Gold Medal
for the webinar:
Dr. Polomski’s webinar will show you MANY examples of trees that need help and show you clearly how to follow the seven steps for tree check-ups.
What kind of tree do you have?
But first, make sure you know what species of tree you are looking at and perhaps even what cultivar, if it is a maple or other “improved” tree. Trees vary in the response to injury, so knowing the species is critical.How to do a 'Tree Checkup'
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Photo: Gail Hudson, Extension Communications |
- Dead hanging or broken branches
- Leaning tree
- Multiple trunks
- Weak branch unions
- Trunk and branch cracks
- Decaying wood
- Root issues, especially stem girdling roots
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Example of weak branch union. Photo: Gail Hudson, Extension Communications |
See the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) for finding a certified arborist.
Find an Arborist
And, here's another good website:
How to Hire a Tree Care Professional
Watch the webinar and I think you will have “improved eyesight” for seeing problems in trees. Remember to look up, inspect trees!
More Resources
Here are some current Extension articles to help you make good selections for your home and garden:Stem girdling roots are roots that encircle a tree trunk. They can strangle the tree (kill it) or make it much more likely to "fail" or topple in a storm. Photo: Gail Hudson, Extension Communications |
Extension's Recommended Trees for Minnesota Guide.
Costello, L. B. Hagen, K. Jones. 1999. University of CA. Pub. 21584
Recognizing Tree Hazards: A Photographic Guide For Homeowners. .
Dunster J. E. Smiley, N. Matheny and S. Lily. 2013. Tree Risk Assessment Manual. Champaign, IL. ISA.
Gilman, E. 2012. An Illustrated Guide To Pruning. 3rd Ed. Delmar, Clifton Park, NY.
International Society of Arboriculture’s Trees Are Good
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, and USDA Forest Service. 1996. USDA Forest Service NA-FR-01-96. 20 pp.
How to Recognize Hazardous Defects in Trees.
Smiley, E., N. Matheny and S. Lily. 2011. Best Management Practices: Tree Risk Assessment. Champaign, IL. ISA.
Author: Mary H. Meyer, Extension Horticulturist and Professor