Sometimes, trees drop branches for no explicable reason. This phenomenon, commonly referred to as sudden branch drop, can be startling and dangerous. The tree may look healthy, there’s no severe storm or wild winds which could be the cause, so why would this happen?

Let’s take a look at why trees drop branches and how you can best try to prevent it.

Why Do Trees Drop Branches?

Whilst it’s difficult to predict why a tree would suddenly drop a limb, there can be an explanation. Some of the more common are:

1. Structural Weakness

Even an outwardly healthy-looking tree can hide signs of structural issues. Weak branch attachments, over-extended limbs and included bark can all be the reason for a tree to suddenly drop branches, especially if the limb is particularly heavy.

2. Hidden Disease Or Decay

Disease and decay can be caused by a number of factors such as fungi or pests and may go unnoticed until the branch eventually fails. Damage from insects, hollow cavities and internal rot can all compromise the strength of branches without tell-tale external signs.

3. Overweight Limbs

Branches that are growing long and horizontal, which is common in certain species can become very heavy over time. Additional weight from moisture and leaves can add to that weight and result in sudden failure, even on still days but particularly in windy conditions.

4. Species Susceptibility

Some species of tree are more likely to drop branches than others. Eucalyptus, oak, beech and sycamore trees are more prone to this phenomenon, as well as older, mature trees.

5. Summer Limb Drop

One theory is that sudden branch drop occurs during hot, calm days over summer, especially after a period of particularly high temperatures and humidity. Referred to as summer limb drop, it is thought that moisture builds up in the limb, making it much heavier than normal. This together with a heat stressed tree causes that limb to suddenly fail.

How You Can Help Prevent It

While you can’t guarantee a tree won’t suddenly drop a limb, proactive care and maintenance goes a long way in keeping your tree in good condition, making it less likely.

1. Have Your Trees Assessed

Have your tree professionally inspected by a qualified Arborist who will be able to identify issues and potential risks. This is particularly important if your tree is large, is overhanging your house or other structures, is close to power lines or anywhere near to where people will be. Your Arborist will be able to detect early signs of disease, poor structure, stress and ill-health.

2. Regular Pruning

Pruning is an absolute must when it comes to tree care. Removing dead, diseased or dying limbs helps keep your tree strong and healthy and assists in keeping pests and decay at bay. Pruning for structure reduces the stress and weight on branches by removing weak attachments and thinning heavy or long limbs.

3. Watering

Ensure your tree has adequate water at all times, especially in the summer months when trees can become stressed in extreme conditions. Be sure that there is proper drainage and don’t over-water, as this can cause the tree to develop weak roots and be susceptible to fungus.

4. Check The Soil

You may wish to check soil health by doing a soil test, which will indicate if the soil is lacking in vitamins and minerals. Be careful not to over-fertilise however as this can lead to rapid, weak growth.

5. Add Mulch

Adding mulch to the base of your tree is an easy and cost effective way too give your tree a natural boost. Mulch is beneficial for a number of reasons. It helps regulate temperature, retains moisture, helps repel pests and weeds and adds to soil quality.

6. Consider Removal

If you have a tree that is repeatedly dropping limbs or showing signs of serious issues, removal may be the safest option, especially if it is near to your home, pathways, power lines or other structures.

Hire An Arborist

The best way to optimise your tree’s health and prevent sudden branch drop is by hiring a professional Arborist. Their highly trained eye could detect an issue long before it becomes a problem, potentially saving you a great deal of time and money.

Professional Tree Care In Brisbane

Call Brisbane’s Aussie Tree Solutions for a free quote on our professional tree care, maintenance and consulting Arborist services. You’ll be in safe hands with Aussie. Our team of tree experts have been taking care of South-East Queensland’s trees for over forty years. From pruning and tree removals to Consulting Arborist Services, we provide a full range of tree care services, so whatever your tree issue, we’ve got the solution!