4 Signs that a Tree Is Threatening Your Home & You Should Call the Arborist

Abundant Tree Care Services • June 19, 2025
Three men are posing for a picture in front of a tree

When big trees are compromised, they can pose serious threats to your safety and your home’s structure. While some warning signs are obvious, others may be subtle until it’s too late. Being able to recognize the indications of a hazardous tree can help you take preventive action before damage occurs. At Abundant Tree Care Services, our local arborists can identify and safely remove hazardous trees. Here are four signs that a tree may be creating a safety risk for your home.


Leaning Toward Structures

A tree that leans dramatically toward your house, garage, or other structure may be unstable. While not all leaning trees are dangerous, a sudden change in posture or a lean that continues to worsen can indicate root failure or structural weakness. If a tree is leaning more than usual following a storm or heavy rain, it's especially important to have it evaluated by an arborist right away.


Cracks in the Trunk or Major Limbs

Visible cracks in a tree’s trunk or large branches may indicate that it is splitting internally. These structural defects can lead to sudden failure, especially during strong winds. Cracks can also provide a pathway for pests and rot to weaken the tree further. Even if the cracks seem minor, they could signal serious underlying issues that compromise the tree’s stability.


Dead or Hanging Branches

Large dead limbs are a common safety concern, especially when located over rooftops, driveways, or walkways. Dead branches are brittle and prone to falling without warning, posing a risk to people and property below. If you notice multiple dead or hanging limbs, the tree may be under stress or declining in health, which can increase the risk of branch failure.


Roots Uplifting or Exposed

Roots play a vital role in anchoring a tree securely to the ground. If you observe roots lifting out of the soil or find that the soil around the base is disturbed, it could mean the tree is shifting. Exposed or damaged roots are often a result of erosion or construction, and can lead to the tree becoming unstable and toppling in high winds.


Tree Removal in De Soto, IL

For expert arborist services in De Soto, Carbondale, and Southern Illinois, contact Abundant Tree Care Services at 618-227-2881. Feel free to give us a call to request an estimate!

Why It’s Important to Have an Arborist Promptly Remove Dead Trees from Your Property

By Abundant Tree Care Services • October 20, 2025
A dead tree may not look like it’s creating an imminent hazard, but it can pose serious risks to your property, your safety, and the surrounding landscape. Once a tree dies, it begins to decay, weakening its structure and making it more susceptible to breaking or falling. While it might be tempting to leave it alone, delaying removal can lead to costly and dangerous consequences. Hiring a professional arborist to remove dead trees ensures the job is done safely and effectively. At Abundant Tree Care Services, our local arborists can identify and safely remove dead trees. Here’s a look at five reasons why prompt dead tree removal by an arborist is so important. Prevents Property Damage Dead trees lose their structural integrity over time, making them more likely to collapse during storms, high winds, or simply under their own weight. Falling branches or entire trees can cause severe damage to homes, fences, vehicles, and power lines. An arborist can safely remove the dead tree before it becomes a worsening hazard. Protects Against Pest Infestations Dead trees often attract pests like termites, carpenter ants, and bark beetles that feed on decaying wood. These insects can multiply and spread to nearby healthy trees or even move into your home’s wooden structures. By removing dead trees promptly, you eliminate a major source of infestation and help protect your property from long-term pest damage. Reduces Safety Risks A dead tree is unpredictable and can become a serious safety hazard. Large limbs can break off unexpectedly, posing a danger to anyone walking or playing nearby. An arborist has the tools and expertise to safely dismantle and remove the tree, reducing the risk of injury to your family. Prevents Disease from Spreading Many trees die as a result of disease or fungal infections. If left standing, a dead tree may spread pathogens to other trees in your yard. Professional arborists can take proper measures to contain and remove it safely, helping preserve the health of your remaining landscape. Improves Curb Appeal Dead trees can be an eyesore, detracting from the beauty and value of your property. Removing them creates space for new, healthy trees and helps maintain a well-cared-for appearance. Tree Removal in De Soto, IL For expert arborist services in De Soto , Carbondale, and Southern Illinois, contact Abundant Tree Care Services at  618-227-2881  . Feel free to give us a call to ask for an estimate!

5 Reasons to Eliminate Stumps When Cutting Down Trees

By Abundant Tree Care Services • September 19, 2025
When trees are professionally cut down, many homeowners focus only on the removal of the trunk and branches, leaving behind the stump. At first glance, a stump may not seem like much of a problem, but over time it can create both practical and aesthetic challenges. Removing the stump along with the tree not only improves the look of your yard, but also helps avoid hidden issues that can surface later. At Abundant Tree Care Services, our local arborists provide expert stump grinding and removal in the greater De Soto, IL area. Here are five reasons why eliminating stumps is the smartest choice when having trees cut down. Prevents Regrowth Tree stumps may look lifeless, but in many cases, they can sprout new shoots and attempt to regrow. This regrowth can create clusters of small, weak trees that are unattractive and difficult to control. Even if you cut these shoots down repeatedly, they can continue to return as long as the stump and roots remain intact. Professional stump removal eliminates the chance of the tree coming back and saves you from ongoing yard maintenance. Improves Safety A tree stump can be a tripping hazard, especially if it’s in an area where children play or people walk regularly. They can also pose risks when mowing the lawn, as hidden stumps can damage equipment or cause accidents. By removing the stump completely, you reduce the chance of injury and create a safer outdoor environment. Enhances Curb Appeal A leftover stump can make even a well-maintained yard appear somewhat neglected. Stumps draw unwanted attention and detract from your home’s landscaping design. Eliminating them helps restore the natural beauty of your property, giving you a smooth, clean surface that can be replanted or redesigned as part of your landscape. Prevents Pest Problems Decaying tree stumps can attract unwanted pests such as termites, carpenter ants, beetles, and other wood-boring insects. These pests often move from the stump to nearby plants or even your home, causing extensive damage over time. Removing the stump eliminates this potential breeding ground and helps protect your property from infestations. Creates More Usable Space Every stump left behind takes up valuable yard space that could otherwise be put to better use. Whether you want to install a garden bed or simply enjoy more lawn, removing stumps gives you more flexibility with your landscaping plans. Stump Grinding & Removal in De Soto, IL For expert arborist services in De Soto , Carbondale, and Southern Illinois, contact Abundant Tree Care Services at  618-227-2881  . Feel free to give us a call to ask for an estimate!