5 Indications that Your Tree Is a Safety Hazard

Abundant Tree Care Services • April 16, 2025
A man is climbing up the side of a tree.

Healthy trees provide beauty and environmental benefits, but when they become compromised, they can pose significant risks. A hazardous tree can cause property damage and serious injuries. At Abundant Tree Care Services, our local arborists can identify and safely remove dangerous trees. Here are five signs that your tree might be a safety hazard.


Cracks or Splits in the Trunk

Cracks and splits in the trunk can weaken a tree’s structural integrity, making it more likely to fall. Deep fissures or multiple cracks may indicate internal decay or previous storm damage. If a tree has a significant crack, it may be unstable and prone to collapse. The arborist can assess the extent of the damage and recommend the best course of action.


Leaning with Exposed Roots

A tree that is leaning significantly, particularly if it has recently changed position, is a major red flag. Leaning trees often have compromised root systems, especially if you notice exposed or damaged roots near the base. Soil erosion, storms, or root disease can contribute to instability. If your tree has started tilting and the roots appear disrupted, it may be at risk of toppling over.


Dead/Dying Branches

If you notice large branches that are dead or dying, your tree may be in trouble. Dead limbs can break off unexpectedly, especially during storms or high winds, creating a serious hazard for people, vehicles, and structures nearby. If your tree has a significant number of dead branches, it may be time for professional evaluation to determine if pruning or removal is necessary.


Signs of Fungal Growth or Decay

The presence of fungal growth at the base of a tree can indicate internal decay. Fungi feed on rotting wood, which means the tree’s internal structure may be compromised. Hollow or soft spots in the trunk can also suggest decay, reducing the tree’s ability to withstand storms and high winds. A tree with significant decay should be evaluated to determine whether it poses a risk.


Nearby Structures Are at Risk

Even if a tree appears healthy, its location can make it a hazard. Trees that are too close to buildings or power lines can create safety issues. Branches that extend over roofs or utility lines can break off and cause damage. If your tree is encroaching on a structure or utility line, professional trimming or removal may be necessary.


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!

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!