5 Reasons to Remove Dead and Damaged Branches
Don't ignore the dead or damaged branches in your landscape trees. Not only do they look bad, but they can also lead to extensive issues for both the tree and your landscape if not addressed.
1. Pest Attraction
Dead branches can attract pests, particularly wood-boring insects. What may start as feeding on the dead branch can quickly spread to living wood as the pests procreate. Further, insects attract birds like woodpeckers, which can do even more damage to the tree. A pest infestation can kill a tree that would otherwise recover from the damaged branch. Trimming out dead and damaged wood allows the tree to heal before pests can become established.
2. Disease Vectors
Disease isn't usually an issue with dead wood, but it can be a major concern on damaged branches. A wound in the bark provides an opening for viruses, bacteria, and fungal pathogens unless the wound heals over quickly. Much like pests, diseases can be deadly if they infect the tree. Clean wounds heal more quickly than ragged wounds caused by wind and other issues, so it is better to cleanly trim off the damaged branch.
3. Fall Hazard
Safety is a major concern. Dead and damaged branches are more likely to break off and fall, particularly on windy days and during storms. These branches can cause injury to anyone below, as well as property damage. Falling tree branches are a major cause of roof damage during storms, but pruning out the damaged branches can greatly reduce the chances of a broken branch.
4. Sap Issues
Damaged branches often drip sap. This dripping sap can leave a sticky residue on sidewalks or even damage things like car paint and patio furniture. You can't prevent sap from flowing from a tree wound, but you can trim the damaged branch back to the trunk. Doing this means the sap will seep on the trunk, where it is less likely to drip down onto things below.
5. Further Damage
Eventually, a dead or damaged branch will break off the tree. When this happens, it can cause extensive damage to the tree. When a branch falls in can rip off excess bark, leaving a major wound. It may also break off more branches on its way to the ground. Trimming out the damaged branch can help reduce further damages later.
Contact a tree trimming service for more help with the dead and damaged branches in your landscape trees.