Tree Surgery Archives - Gecko Tree Surgeons Ltd

Trees bring beauty, shade, and character to gardens and green spaces across Southampton and the surrounding areas. But while healthy trees can thrive for decades, there are times when removal becomes the safest and most responsible option. Whether due to disease, storm damage, or structural weakness, recognising the signs a tree is dangerous is crucial for protecting people, property, and neighbouring plants.

As professional tree surgeons in Southampton, our team at Gecko Tree Surgeons Ltd is often called out to assess whether a tree can be saved or if it needs to be removed. Below, we’ve outlined some of the most common warning signs to look out for, along with guidance on when to call in the experts for safe and efficient tree removal services.

Visible Decay or Rot

One of the clearest signs that a tree may need to be removed is visible rot or decay. This can appear as:

Soft, crumbly wood inside the trunk
Cavities or hollowed-out sections
Fungus or mushrooms growing on the bark
Dead bark peeling away from the tree

Rot weakens the structural integrity of a tree, making it more likely to fall during high winds or storms. If decay is confined to small branches, pruning might be enough. But when the trunk or major limbs are affected, full removal is often the safest option.

Large Cracks or Splits in the Trunk

Cracks running vertically along the trunk or large splits in major limbs are a serious concern. These fractures usually mean the tree can no longer support its own weight. In time, they can cause entire sections to break away, posing a risk to nearby homes, cars, or people.

Our experienced team at Gecko Tree Surgeons Ltd often encounters trees in Southampton gardens with hidden cracks only visible on closer inspection. That’s why regular checks by a qualified arborist are invaluable.

Dead or Falling Branches

Shedding leaves is natural, but shedding entire branches is not. If your tree is regularly dropping large limbs, this can signal declining health or internal disease. Dead branches not only spoil the look of your garden but also create hazards, especially in areas where children play or cars are parked.

If just a few branches are dead, our tree pruning services can restore health and shape. But if more than 50% of the crown is dead, removal is typically the best option.

Leaning or Unstable Trees

A tree that suddenly starts leaning can be an indicator of serious root damage. While some trees naturally grow at an angle, a lean that develops quickly suggests instability. This often happens after heavy rain when soil becomes waterlogged and roots lose their grip.

In Southampton’s coastal climate, where strong winds are common, a leaning tree is a potential danger. Our team can assess whether corrective support will help, or if a full removal is the safest course of action.

Storm or Weather Damage

Southampton residents know the impact storms can have, particularly on older or weaker trees. Signs of storm damage include:

Broken or hanging branches
Split trunks
Uprooted roots
Trees tilting dangerously after heavy winds

When trees are damaged in this way, emergency tree surgery may be required. At Gecko Tree Surgeons Ltd, we provide emergency call-outs to make dangerous areas safe, whether that means removing hazardous branches or carrying out a complete tree removal.

Disease or Pest Infestations

Trees are living organisms and can be affected by diseases and pests. Common symptoms include:

Discoloured or spotted leaves
Premature leaf drop
Excessive sap leakage
Visible insect damage

Left untreated, disease and pests can spread to other trees in your garden or neighbourhood. While some conditions can be managed with pruning and treatment, advanced infections often require full removal to protect surrounding trees.

Root Problems

Roots are the foundation of a healthy tree. If they become damaged by construction, compacted soil, or rot, the entire tree is at risk. Warning signs include:

Heaving soil around the base
Fungi or mushrooms near the roots
Trees tilting after rainfall

Because root problems are often hidden underground, they’re difficult for homeowners to diagnose. That’s why calling a qualified tree surgeon in Southampton is essential if you suspect root damage.

Why Professional Tree Removal Matters

Removing a tree is not a DIY task. It requires experience, specialist equipment, and a clear understanding of safety practices. At Gecko Tree Surgeons Ltd, we:

Provide full site assessments to determine whether removal is necessary
Use industry-standard equipment to remove trees safely and efficiently
Handle waste disposal responsibly, recycling or chipping timber where possible
Offer competitive, transparent quotes for all tree removal services

Attempting tree removal without the proper training can be extremely dangerous. Hiring professionals ensures the job is done safely and your property is protected.

Protecting Your Property and Garden

A dangerous tree doesn’t just pose risks to safety — it can also cause costly damage to driveways, garden walls, fences, and nearby buildings. Removing unstable trees in good time not only protects your home but also creates space for new planting, enhancing the beauty and health of your outdoor space.

If you’re unsure about the condition of a tree, our tree care specialists can provide expert advice and recommend whether pruning, treatment, or full removal is required.

Get Expert Help in Southampton Today

If you’ve noticed any of these signs a tree is dangerous, don’t ignore them. Our trusted team at Gecko Tree Surgeons Ltd offers professional tree removal services in Southampton and the surrounding areas. Whether it’s routine maintenance or urgent emergency tree surgery, we’re here to help.