In Brisbane, where storms, heat, and humidity take their toll on our trees, knowing when to call in a qualified arborist isn’t always obvious. Many homeowners wait until a tree becomes dangerous or drops a limb before they take action. But good tree care starts earlier—and smarter.

This guide walks you through clear signs that your tree might be in trouble, what an arborist actually does, and how to get the most out of a tree assessment.

1. The Tree Looks… Off

A healthy tree has strong, flexible branches, vibrant leaves (in season), and solid bark. Watch for:

• Dead or dropping branches, especially in calm weather
• Cracks or splits in the trunk or major limbs
• Sparse or discoloured foliage
• Fungus at the base of the trunk—this can mean decay inside

If you notice any of these, it’s not time for guesswork—it’s time for an assessment.

2. After a Storm: Inspect Before You Regret

Even if your tree made it through a storm upright, it may be structurally weakened. Things to check:

• Hanging branches caught up high (called “hangers”)
• Leaning trees that weren’t leaning before
• Uplifted soil around the base of the trunk

These are classic indicators of a tree that might fall later—not a risk you want to take around your home, fence, or family.

3. Hire an Arborist

There’s a difference between someone with a chainsaw and someone trained in tree biomechanics, disease, and risk assessment. A certified arborist will:

• Give you a diagnosis, not just a quote
• Know when a tree can be saved vs when it needs removal
• Advise on pruning that encourages long-term health (not just making it “smaller”)

If someone’s first suggestion is “lop it back hard,” you might want a second opinion.

4. Prevention is Cheaper Than Cleanup

Many tree failures are predictable and preventable. A single proactive visit can save:

• Thousands in emergency removal costs
• Damage to your roof, driveway, or neighbour’s fence
• The tree itself, if issues are caught early

Final Thought

If something about your tree doesn’t feel right—trust your gut. Call someone who knows what to look for. At GDE Tree Services, we don’t just cut—we care, assess, and guide. And yes, we still climb the old-school way when needed.

Want an honest opinion? We’re happy to take a look.