Early Warning Signs: How to Spot a Sick Tree Before It Becomes a Problem

Healthy roots are the foundation of a strong, stable tree. When those roots become damaged, compacted, or diseased, the entire tree is at risk—sometimes without you realizing it. For homeowners in West Atlanta, keeping an eye on early warning signs can prevent property damage, costly removals, and dangerous accidents. If you suspect your tree may be in trouble, here are the key signs to look for and why calling a professional tree expert is the safest next step. 1. Visible Root Damage or Decay Roots should be firm and well-anchored. When they’re compromised, the danger increases quickly. Common signs include: Soft, spongy, or crumbling roots Fungal growth (like mushrooms or conks) around the base Strong, foul odors indicating rot Exposed roots that appear brittle or dry Root rot often develops silently, but visible decay almost always means the issue is advanced. 2. Soil Heaving or Cracked Ground If the soil around your tree appears lifted or cracked, especially after strong winds or heavy rainfall, it’s a sign the roots may be losing their grip. You may notice: Soil pushed upward on one side of the trunk Gaps forming between the soil and the base Sudden leaning after the ground shifts Soil movement is one of the earliest indicators that a tree is becoming unstable. 3. A Sudden or Increasing Lean A gentle lean that a tree has had for years is usually harmless. But a new or worsening lean often points to root damage, soil failure, or structural decline. Warning signs include: Leaning accompanied by cracked soil Leaning after storms Branches suddenly shifting direction toward the ground Tilted root plate (where the trunk meets the soil) A leaning tree should always be evaluated quickly for safety. 4. Sparse Foliage and Slow Growth When roots can’t absorb nutrients, the canopy tells the story. Look for: Thinning leaves Dead or bare branches Leaves that are unusually small or pale Delayed leaf-out in spring Declining growth from year to year These symptoms suggest the roots aren’t supplying enough water or nutrients to keep the tree healthy. 5. Cracks or Splits Near the Base of the Trunk The lower trunk is closely connected to the root system. Damage here can reveal deeper issues. Signs of concern include: Vertical splits Missing bark Soft or hollow areas Deep cracks during dry seasons Insect activity around damaged sections These issues can reduce structural stability, making the tree more vulnerable to falling. 6. Fungal Growth Around the Base Fungi thrive in decaying wood and are one of the strongest indicators of internal root problems. Common fungal warning signs: Mushrooms forming around the soil line Shelf-like growths attached to the base Dark, wet-looking patches on the trunk Wood that crumbles under pressure If fungi are growing, decay is already underway—and often extensive. 7. Branch Dieback Starting from the Top The top of the tree—called the crown—shows stress first when roots fail. Watch for: Dead branches near the upper canopy Sudden twig drop Bare patches where leaves once flourished Visible decline spreading downward This pattern usually means the root system is compromised and can no longer support full canopy growth. Why Root Problems Should Never Be Ignored Unstable or diseased roots can lead to: Tree collapse or breakage Property damage Injury to people and pets Loss of landscape value Insect and disease spread to nearby trees Early intervention is the best protection. Many root-related issues can be managed—or stopped—when detected soon enough. Call West Atlanta Tree Service for a Professional Evaluation If your tree is showing any signs of root trouble, don’t wait until the next storm brings it down. West Atlanta Tree Service provides expert inspections, root health assessments, stabilization solutions, and safe removal when necessary. Our certified tree specialists can determine the cause and help restore the health and safety of your landscape. Protect your home. Safeguard your family. Keep your trees healthy. Contact West Atlanta Tree Service today for a thorough, reliable tree evaluation. Tree Service, Tree Removal, Tree Trimming, Stump Removal Bowdon, Bremen, Buchanan, Carrollton, Cedartown, Dallas, Douglasville, Franklin, Hiram, Lithia Springs, Mt. Zion, Newnan, Palmetto, Rockmart, Roopville, Tallapoosa, Temple, Villa Rica, and Whitesburg Georgia and Abernathy, Fruithurst, Heflin, Macedonia, Muscadine, and Ranburne Alabama. West Atlanta Tree Service Carrollton, Ga 30116 770-830-3828 https://www.westatltree.com

Flowering shrubs bring color, fragrance, and year-round charm to your landscape—but only when they’re cared for properly. Many homeowners unintentionally harm their shrubs through pruning errors, watering issues, or simple misunderstandings about plant needs. At West Atlanta Tree Service, we help homeowners in West Atlanta keep their landscapes thriving by identifying common mistakes and offering practical solutions. Below, we break down the most frequent shrub-care missteps—and how to avoid them to keep your flowering shrubs blooming beautifully season after season. 🌸 Why Proper Care Matters Healthy flowering shrubs don’t just look good—they promote better curb appeal, stronger plant health, and more resilient growth during Georgia’s hot summers and unpredictable winters. Avoiding common mistakes can mean the difference between full, vibrant blooms and stressed, declining shrubs. ❌ Mistake #1: Pruning at the Wrong Time The Problem: Many shrubs bloom on old wood (last year’s growth), meaning pruning in late winter or early spring removes the very buds that would have bloomed. Examples of shrubs that bloom on old wood: Hydrangea macrophylla Azaleas Rhododendrons Forsythia Camellias How to Avoid It: Know whether your shrub blooms on old or new wood. Prune old-wood bloomers immediately after flowering. Prune new-wood bloomers (like butterfly bush or panicle hydrangea) in late winter. If you're unsure, West Atlanta Tree Service can help you identify proper timing for each plant species in your yard. ❌ Mistake #2: Overwatering or Underwatering The Problem: Inconsistent watering leads to root stress, fungal issues, or poor flowering. Georgia’s clay soil doesn’t drain fast, so too much water often causes more damage than too little. How to Avoid It: Water deeply but infrequently to encourage strong root systems. Check soil moisture before watering. Add mulch to maintain even moisture levels and reduce evaporation. A professional evaluation can determine if drainage issues are affecting your shrubs’ performance. ❌ Mistake #3: Planting Shrubs in the Wrong Location The Problem: Sun-loving shrubs planted in shade—or shade-loving shrubs planted in direct sunlight—struggle to bloom, grow sparsely, or develop leaf scorch. How to Avoid It: Know your shrub’s light requirements before planting. Consider airflow, soil type, and spacing requirements. Avoid planting too close to structures, where airflow is reduced. Choosing the right location from the start helps shrubs thrive long-term. ❌ Mistake #4: Using Too Much Fertilizer The Problem: Fertilizer overload results in excessive leafy growth with minimal blooms. It may also lead to burned roots, especially in hot conditions. How to Avoid It: Use slow-release fertilizers designed for shrubs. Follow recommended application amounts and timing. Consider a soil test before fertilizing to understand nutrient needs. A soil analysis from West Atlanta Tree Service can guide you toward the correct nutrient plan. ❌ Mistake #5: Neglecting Mulch Management The Problem: Mulch piled too high (“volcano mulching”) suffocates roots and encourages pests and disease. How to Avoid It: Keep mulch at 2–3 inches deep. Maintain a mulch-free zone around the base of the trunk. Refresh mulch seasonally without creating thick, compacted layers. Proper mulching protects your shrubs without restricting their growth. ❌ Mistake #6: Ignoring Pests and Disease The Problem: Flowering shrubs—especially azaleas, hydrangeas, and roses—are prone to specific pests and fungal issues. Early symptoms often go unnoticed until major damage occurs. How to Avoid It: Inspect shrubs regularly for discoloration, leaf spots, or unusual growth. Keep shrubs properly spaced to improve airflow. Seek professional diagnosis if symptoms persist. Early intervention keeps small issues from becoming costly problems. ❌ Mistake #7: Forgetting Annual Maintenance The Problem: Shrubs need routine maintenance throughout the year. Skipping seasonal care can lead to weak flowering, reduced growth, or dieback. How to Avoid It: Trim dead or damaged branches each season. Watch for soil compaction around the plant base. Refresh mulch and check moisture weekly during summer heat. Consistent care prevents surprises and supports long-term plant vitality. 🌿 Let West Atlanta Tree Service Help Your Shrubs Thrive Caring for flowering shrubs doesn’t have to be complicated—especially when you have professionals on your side. At West Atlanta Tree Service, we offer expert pruning, shrub care, soil evaluation, and seasonal maintenance to keep your landscape healthy and beautiful. Whether you’re dealing with poor blooms, struggling plants, or simply want to improve your yard’s appearance, our team can help diagnose problems and deliver solutions tailored to your shrubs’ needs. 📞 Contact West Atlanta Tree Service today to schedule shrub maintenance, pruning, or a full landscape evaluation. Let’s bring your flowering shrubs back to life! Tree Service, Tree Removal, Tree Trimming, Stump Removal Bowdon, Bremen, Buchanan, Carrollton, Cedartown, Dallas, Douglasville, Franklin, Hiram, Lithia Springs, Mt. Zion, Newnan, Palmetto, Rockmart, Roopville, Tallapoosa, Temple, Villa Rica, and Whitesburg Georgia and Abernathy, Fruithurst, Heflin, Macedonia, Muscadine, and Ranburne Alabama. West Atlanta Tree Service Carrollton, Ga 30116 770-830-3828 https://www.westatltree.com