Suddenly, limbs are dropping off a tree on your property. If you’ve experienced this, you’re not alone. Sudden limb drop is both frustrating and hazardous, and it is often misunderstood. Whether you have experienced it or want to prevent it, it is possible to avoid this issue or minimize damage.
Identifying risk factors early can help homeowners avoid property damage or injury. Let’s take a closer look at what limb drop is so you can keep trees healthy and safe.
What Is Sudden Limb Drop?
Sudden limb drop occurs when tree limbs fall unexpectedly and without an obvious cause. A large tree can appear to be in good health and then suddenly lose limbs. There is no clear explanation for why this happens, but several factors are believed to contribute to the phenomenon.
This is different from storm related breakage. With storm related breakage, storm forces like wind and rain wear down the tree and cause damage.
Weather conditions such as prolonged heat and humidity can strain moisture levels in trees, causing an imbalance. On a calm day, branches may suddenly drop. Some believe limb drop is the tree’s attempt to regulate moisture levels. Trees like Sycamore, Oak, and Elm are more prone to experience this.
Common Causes of Limb Drop
The true inner workings of limb drop are largely a mystery, but several causes are believed to play a role.
Internal tree stress is a major factor. Trees can experience internal problems long before visible signs appear. This can be brought on by environmental factors, excessive moisture, or disease.
Moisture imbalances can weigh trees down, and overextended limbs are more prone to break because of this. Fungal infections can weaken trees and contribute to sudden limb drop.
This is where proper pruning and tree care make a difference. Without it, improper pruning or neglect can worsen the problem over time, creating unhealthy trees that become hazards.
Warning Signs to Watch For
Since limb drop can happen suddenly and without warning, you want to know what signs to look out for. Critical warning signs include large horizontal limbs, cracking bark, fungal growth, and oozing sap. Large horizontal limbs can be especially damaging to surrounding homes, property, or even nearby people or pets.
Once these are spotted, you’ll want to take action quickly to support your tree’s health and safety so the problem doesn't worsen. Taking quick action for proper tree care can prevent future damages or injuries, creating a safer landscape.
Have peace of mind by identifying these risks early. Regular tree inspections by certified arborists like those at Monster Tree can schedule and perform regular inspections to support the look and health of your tree.
How to Prevent Sudden Limb Drop
The process of sudden limb drop is still a mystery scientifically but the preventative care isn't. Being proactive and consistent with an actionable tree care plan will help to safeguard trees against sudden limb drop. This means healthier and safer trees for your landscape.
Seasonal pruning in accordance with your tree’s species helps to keep branches growing without over extending the tree. Crown reduction in accordance with your tree’s species allows for sustainable branch growth.
Removing dead branches helps trees to more effectively use their resources for healthier growth. Dead branches can attract forests and leave a tree vulnerable to disease and decay.
By performing regular proper structural pruning, you can improve the tree’s long-term stability and reduce stress on heavy limbs.
When to Call a Certified Arborist
Much of what prevents sudden limb drop can be performed safely at home. Proper care for trees on a daily basis and safe handling of tree pruning either individually or with a scheduled tree service can help to prevent the severity of sudden limb drop and extend the life of your trees.
For tree health and safety, you have to know when to call a professional. Calling a professional like a certified arborist can help to safely prune or care for trees near homes, power lines, or frequently used areas.
ISA certified arborists are helpful in assessing limb stability. Limb stability isn't something you want to guess about. Unstable limbs can cause damage to the tree itself, property, or even people in the surrounding area.
Stay Safe with Monster Tree Service
Sudden limb drop can take you by surprise but with intentional tree care you can minimize any extra ones. Keep your trees and property safe with a professional service like Monster Tree. Take proactive steps against sudden limb drop by scheduling a tree inspection or trimming service.
At Monster Tree, your yard is our yard, so we’ll handle it with care. Customers appreciate our fast response times and enjoy reliable results that last. Contact us today to support your tree’s safety and your peace of mind with Monster Tree services.