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Ryan Hunt
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Driscoll Tree Service and its team are professional, friendly, and excellent at tree removal. Their prices are the best. We had them remove a completely dead tree and a super large branch. For both experiences, they came out fast and did an Incredible job. Highly recommend.

Hugh Reinhardt
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Great job they removed a big tree stump on our property with no problem and at a better price than the others guys wanted to charge us. Driscoll Tree Service team was on time and had the right equipment and got right to work.

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Top Signs You Need an Arborist to Inspect Your Trees

Most of us love the trees on our property because they offer shade, beauty, privacy, and even fruit in some cases! Despite our appreciation, how well do we really understand trees? Sure, we know when one is lush and green in springtime or full of color in the fall - but do we know when it’s crying out for help?

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The truth is trees are living organisms with their own set of health concerns, and they don’t always scream for help. That’s where arborists - trained and certified tree service professionals - come in... but you don’t have to be an expert to know when it’s time to bring one in.

Whether you’re a homeowner, property manager, or business owner, spotting the early warning signs of tree trouble can make the difference between a quick fix and a costly - even dangerous - situation. In this brief article brought to you by Driscoll Tree Service, we share five signs that warrant having an arborist inspect your trees as soon as possible.

Sign 1: Dead or Hanging Branches

If you see large dead limbs or branches hanging from a tree, then you're looking at a red flag. These limbs can fall without warning (especially during storms or windy days). They pose a clear threat to people, vehicles, and structures below.

Dead branches often mean part of the tree is no longer receiving nutrients. This could be due to internal decay, disease, or root damage. An arborist can determine if the tree can be pruned and preserved - or if tree removal may be the safer option.

Sign 2: Cracks in the Trunk or Major Limbs

Small cracks in bark can be normal, especially on older trees, but deep vertical splits can indicate serious structural issues. These cracks might be a sign that the tree is stressed or suffering from internal rot. That makes it hard to support its own weight.

If you notice missing bark, oozing sap, or fungus along the cracks, then it's time to ring Driscoll or any other tree company. A certified arborist can assess the severity of the damage and determine whether the tree poses a risk.

Sign 3: Leaning or Unstable Trees

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Some trees grow at a slight angle and remain stable for years. If your tree suddenly starts to lean, or if the lean worsens over time, then root instability, soil erosion, or storm damage might be at play.

Even a small lean in a large tree can mean it's shifting. In Metro Atlanta’s storm-prone seasons, that’s a major liability. Arborists have the training to diagnose whether a tree can be braced or treated, or if a tree removal is necessary.

Sign 4: Changes in Leaf Health or Early Leaf Drop

Leaves are often the first part of a tree to show signs of stress. Don’t chalk it up to a seasonal quirk if leaves are turning brown too soon, thinning out, curling, or falling off earlier than expected. Leaf issues can point to root damage or disease, pest infestations, fungal infections, nutrient deficiencies, or something else.

An arborist in Grayson, GA can evaluate the foliage, perform soil tests, and recommend treatment before the issue spreads or becomes irreversible. This is your chance to call an arborist and turn things around.

Sign 5: Fungal Growth or Unusual Swellings

Mushrooms or fungal conks growing at the base or trunk of a tree might seem harmless, or even charming, but they’re often a symptom of internal decay. Similarly, bulges or swellings on the trunk can indicate disease, infestation, or a structural defect.

Don’t ignore signs of fungus or odd growth. An arborist can determine whether intervention is possible or if the tree presents a risk to the surrounding vegetation and trees.

Don't Wait 'Till It's Late - Call Driscoll Tree Service

Trees rarely fail without warning, and they whisper before they shout. By paying attention to these five signs, you can take action early. Don't second guess yourself. Call Driscoll Tree Service. Your trees are worth it - and so is your peace of mind.

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