Storms, drought and age can turn a beloved tree into a liability. Early detection is key. Here are five warning signs Bristol homeowners shouldn’t ignore.
Sudden or Progressive Lean
A tilt exceeding 15 ° from vertical, especially if recent, suggests root plate failure. Look for cracked soil or lifted turf on the side opposite the lean.
Cracks and Splits in the Trunk
Vertical cracks, “shear” splits and bark seams indicate internal decay. In multi-stemmed trees, splits at the union spell higher failure risk.
Fungal Fruiting Bodies
Vertical cracks, “shear” splits and bark seams indicate internal decay. In multi-stemmed trees, splits at the union spell higher failure risk.
Shelf-like brackets (e.g., Ganoderma), honey-coloured Armillaria or oozing lesions point to active decay. Some fungi degrade roots invisibly before outward signs appear.
Dead of Hanging Branches (Widow Makers)
Large deadwood can detach without warning. If you see barkless, brittle limbs or “hangers” lodged in the canopy, rope-off the area immediately.
Heaving Soil Around the Base
Soil cracks or bulges after high winds reveal root plate movement. Trees on water-logged clay are particularly susceptible.
What to Do Next
> Keep people and pets clear.
> Photograph defects.
> Call a qualified arborist for a visual tree assessment (Level 1) or tomograph scan (Level 3).
Our emergency team is on call 24/7, and most issues are resolved within 48 hours of inspection.