Autumn brings cooler days, colourful leaves and, often, strong autumn winds. For homeowners, this is the perfect time to take a closer look at the trees around your property.
Healthy trees can often cope with changing weather, but weak branches, damaged limbs, and other problems can become more serious during high autumn winds. A simple tree inspection now could help protect your garden, home, and trees throughout the autumn and winter months.
Here, we share what homeowners in Colchester should look for.
Check for dead or broken branches
Start by looking up into the tree canopy. Dead branches may appear bare while the rest of the tree is covered in leaves. Broken branches, hanging limbs, or pieces of loose bark can also be warning signs.
Strong autumn winds can put extra pressure on damaged branches. If one breaks and falls, it could damage fences, vehicles, buildings, or other parts of your garden. Never try to remove large or high branches yourself. Professional tree surgery in Colchester can safely assess and deal with potentially dangerous branches.
Look for cracks in the trunk
The trunk provides the main support for a tree, so cracks should not be ignored. Look for deep splits, unusual cavities, or areas where the bark has become damaged. Some cracks may be linked to previous damage, disease, or heavy branches placing stress on the tree.
Not every crack means a tree is unsafe, but it’s worth getting expert advice if you notice a significant change.
Check the tree’s overall shape
Take a step back and look at the whole tree. Does it appear balanced, or is there a large amount of growth on one side? A tree that has developed an uneven canopy may need closer inspection and large branches can become heavy, particularly after wet weather.
Regular tree inspections can help to identify structural problems before they become serious.
Look for signs of disease or decay
Autumn is a good time to check trees for signs of poor health. Look for unusual fungi, soft or decaying wood, damaged bark, or branches that appear weaker than the rest of the tree. Changes in leaf colour are normal during autumn, so don’t assume every yellow or brown leaf means there’s a problem. Instead, look for several signs occurring together.
If you’re concerned about a tree’s health, an accredited tree surgeon can help to identify the cause and recommend suitable tree care.
Check trees close to buildings and power lines
Trees growing close to homes, garages, sheds, roads or overhead cables need extra care. Before autumn winds begin, check whether any branches are hanging dangerously or appear to be getting too close to structures.
Never attempt to cut branches near power lines. Contact a qualified professional who can assess the situation safely.
Don’t ignore changes after storms
Even if a tree looked healthy before a storm, check it afterwards. High autumn winds can cause hidden damage, including split branches or cracks that are difficult to spot from the ground.
If a branch is hanging dangerously or a tree looks unstable, keep people and pets away from the area and seek professional help. Emergency tree surgery may sometimes be needed to make a tree safe following severe weather.
For homeowners looking for tree surgery in Colchester, Tree & Lawn Company can help with professional tree inspections, pruning, and other tree care services. We also provide comprehensive lawn care, helping you look after your entire outdoor space. Contact us today.
Preparing trees for autumn winds FAQs
How can I tell if a tree is unsafe in strong winds?
Look for dead branches, large cracks, hanging limbs, signs of decay, or sudden changes in the tree’s shape. If you are unsure, arrange a professional tree inspection.
Should I prune trees before autumn winds?
Tree pruning can remove dead or damaged branches that may pose a risk, but trees shouldn’t be heavily pruned without professional advice. The right approach depends on the tree species, condition, and location.
What should I do if a tree is damaged by autumn winds?
Keep away from damaged trees and fallen or hanging branches, particularly if they’re close to buildings or power lines. Contact us to assess the damage and make the area safe.