If you have a leaning tree in your yard you might be thinking it’s a major problem and the tree needs to be removed urgently. Whilst this can be the case, leaning trees are actually pretty common and there could be a reason for it leaning that’s entirely normal and doesn’t actually pose any risk.

Understanding why trees lean and being able to identify when it’s a cause for concern, can help protect you and your property from potential damage as well as saving your tree from being removed unnecessarily.

Why Do Trees Lean?

1. Phototropism (growing towards light)

Trees grow naturally toward sunlight which is known as phototropism. Particularly in shaded areas, trees can angle their branches and trunk towards the best source of light, especially if there are larger trees or structures nearby blocking the sun. This type of lean generally develops very gradually over a period of time and isn’t typically a sign of ill health.

2. Environmental Adaptation

A lean that has slowly developed over time, especially in young trees, is often completely harmless. If your tree isn’t showing any visible signs of root damage, has healthy foliage and a stable base, it could just be adapting to its environment. Many trees that have a slight lean can live healthily for many years without any intervention.

3. Severe Winds

In areas where there are consistently strong, severe winds, trees can develop a permanent lean in the direction opposing the wind’s force. This is quite common in coastal areas and open plains, where wind exposure is often constant.

4. Compromised Roots

A leaning tree can be a warning sign that the tree has compromised roots. Roots that are shallow or damaged, often caused by root rot, poor soil conditions, construction or erosion, can’t anchor the tree upright, causing the lean. Without the support of solid roots, the trunk can suddenly or slowly, depending on the soil conditions, tilt.

5. Structural Imbalance

If the tree has experienced significant growth on one side of the tree and not the other, the additional weight can throw off its balance. This can be caused by unbalanced pruning, storm damage, pest infestation, disease or just natural branch development. Over time, the tree will lean over on its heavier side.

6. Soil Movement

Shifting soil beneath a tree due to unstable ground, flooding or erosion can cause the tree to lose its footing. This is particularly common on riverbanks or sloping ground where soil can be less compact.

7. Improper Planting

If a tree was planted incorrectly it can grow with a lean. Maybe it wasn’t planted deep enough in the soil or insecurely or perhaps it was exposed to strong winds as a very young sapling. If your tree is still young and only planted in the last couple of years, you can attempt to dig it up and replant it correctly so that it grows straight but do take care to not disturb the root system. Check with your Arborist for their advice.

When To Be Concerned About A Leaning Tree

A leaning tree can indicate a potentially serious issue if:

• The tree is suddenly leaning, especially after strong winds or heavy rain
• There are visibly damaged or exposed roots
• There are visible splits or cracks in the tree’s trunk
• There are visible cracks or splits in the tree’s soil mound
• The tree is large and located close to your home or other structures

In these situations, it is imperative that you have a qualified Arborist inspect the tree as soon as possible, as the tree could be at risk of falling over. Your Arborist will assess the tree’s risk level based on its stability, condition and overall health and advise whether intervention is required which may include bracing, cabling or selective pruning or whether the best and safest course of action would be to remove the tree. DIY is not recommended in these situations, as it could be a potentially dangerous situation which could put you and your home at risk.

Hire An Arborist For Your Leaning Tree

The best way to identify potential issues with your leaning trees is to hire a qualified Arborist to carry out regular inspections.

As they say, prevention is always better than cure, so having your trees properly cared for and maintained will go a long way to ensuring they stay strong, healthy and safe long into the future.

Top of Form For the very best in tree care, call Brisbane’s Aussie Tree Solutions for a free quote on our professional tree consulting and maintenance services. We provide a full range of services from expert tree pruning and tree removals to consulting Arborist services. Whatever your tree care needs, we’ll get to the root of it!