Tree Care Tips & Insights

Every year, unexpected tree failures cause thousands of dollars in property damage across the Salt Lake City area. From heavy winter snow loads along the Wasatch Front to summer monsoon winds sweeping through the valley, Utah trees face unique stresses that can compromise their structural integrity over time. The good news is that most hazardous trees show warning signs well before they fail -- if you know what to look for. In this comprehensive guide, our certified arborists share the key indicators every Utah homeowner should watch for to keep their property and family safe.

1. Significant Leaning

While some trees grow naturally at a slight angle, a tree that has recently started leaning -- or one that leans more than 15 degrees from vertical -- is cause for concern. Sudden leaning often indicates root failure or soil instability, both of which can lead to a complete blowover. After heavy rain or spring snowmelt, Utah's clay-heavy soils become saturated and lose their ability to anchor root systems securely. Pay special attention to trees on slopes, near retaining walls, or in areas where recent grading or construction has disturbed the soil. If you notice cracked or heaving soil on the side opposite the lean, the tree may be actively uprooting and you should contact a professional immediately.

2. Trunk Cracks and Splits

Deep vertical cracks in the trunk, splits where major branches meet the trunk, and cavities that expose the interior wood are all signs of structural compromise. These defects weaken the tree's ability to support its own weight, especially under the additional load of heavy snow or ice -- a regular occurrence along the Wasatch Front from November through March. Look for cracks wider than a couple of inches, cracks that go deep into the wood (not just the outer bark), and V-shaped branch unions where included bark creates a weak attachment point. Multiple cracks on the same tree multiply the risk significantly.

3. Dead Branches and Crown Dieback

Dead branches, also called deadwood, are one of the most common tree hazards and the leading cause of tree-related injuries in residential settings. A dead branch can fall without warning, even on a calm day, because the wood becomes brittle as it dries and decays. If more than 25 percent of a tree's crown is dead or dying, the tree is in serious decline and may be a candidate for removal. Look for bare branches during the growing season when the rest of the tree is leafed out, branches with peeling or missing bark, and fine twigs that snap easily rather than flexing. Crown dieback that starts at the tips and works inward often signals root problems, drought stress, or disease.

4. Root Damage and Decay

Roots are the foundation of a tree's stability, yet they are often the most overlooked part of the tree. Severed roots from construction, trenching, or grade changes can remove up to half of a tree's anchoring capacity. Decay fungi like Armillaria (honey fungus) and Ganoderma attack root wood and can hollow out the entire root plate without any visible symptoms above ground until the tree suddenly topples. Warning signs of root problems include mushrooms or conks growing at the base of the tree, soil heaving or cracking in a circular pattern, and a trunk that seems to emerge from the ground at an unusual angle. Trees with compromised roots are especially dangerous in Utah's windy conditions and saturated spring soils.

5. Fungal Growth and Decay Indicators

Mushrooms, shelf fungi (conks), and other fungal fruiting bodies growing on or near a tree are clear evidence that decay is present inside the wood. By the time fungi produce visible mushrooms, the internal decay is often extensive. Common decay fungi in the Salt Lake City area include artist's conk (Ganoderma applanatum), sulfur shelf (Laetiporus sulphureus), and honey mushroom (Armillaria mellea). Also watch for soft, punky wood when you press on the trunk, sawdust-like material (frass) at the base of the tree indicating boring insects, and areas of bark that are sunken, discolored, or oozing sap. Any of these signs warrant a professional evaluation.

When to Call an Arborist

While this guide can help you identify potential hazards, assessing tree risk accurately requires training and experience. We recommend calling a certified arborist if you observe any of the warning signs described above, if a tree is within striking distance of your home, driveway, or areas where people gather, after any major storm event (even if no visible damage occurred), or if a tree simply does not look right to you -- homeowner instinct is often correct. A professional risk assessment involves evaluating the tree's species, structure, site conditions, and the targets below it to determine the actual level of risk and the appropriate course of action.

Seasonal Considerations for Utah

Utah's climate creates distinct seasonal hazards for trees. In winter, heavy wet snow and ice storms are the leading cause of branch and tree failure, particularly for species like silver maple and Siberian elm that have brittle wood. Spring brings rapid snowmelt, saturated soils, and strong winds -- a dangerous combination for trees with root problems. Summer monsoon storms deliver sudden high winds and heavy rain that can topple weakened trees with little warning. Fall is the ideal time for a professional tree inspection, giving you time to address any hazards before winter arrives. At Canyon Crown Tree, we recommend that homeowners in the Salt Lake City area have their mature trees inspected by a certified arborist at least once every two to three years to stay ahead of potential problems.