Have you recently moved to a new house? Are you wondering whether or not you should be concerned about the trees on your land? All trees eventually die, but it's not always easy to tell whether a tree is actually on its last legs or whether it's simply in need of a little extra care to make it healthy once again. Fortunately, it can sometimes be easier to spot problems during the winter after the tree has lost its leaves. Before spring arrives, here are some things to look for:

Discolored bark: The bark on a tree should be relatively uniform in color and texture. A few discolored spots are usually normal and nothing to be concerned about. However, if half of the tree is darker and rougher than the rest, your tree may actually be suffering from sunburn. Depending on the severity of the burn, your local tree services company may still be able to save the tree. But if the tree has been unprotected for many years, it's possible that you may have to resign yourself to making plans to cut down the tree in question. Getting the opinion of a professional will be the best way to tell whether or not your tree is worth saving.

Hollow areas: During the spring and summer, the tree's leaves may be concealing a potentially dangerous secret. If the tree was badly pruned in the past or simply suffered insect damage, part of the wood may have rotted or been eaten away to form a hollow space. Look for any holes at the forks where current branches meet the trunk or where branches used to be attached in the past. If you see any, a tree services professional should be called in to assess the damage. They may be able to remove the affected area and the tree will still be fine. But it's also possible that the tree is already more or less dead and should be cut down in order to prevent it from falling down and causing damage to your property.

Mushrooms or toadstools: These won't appear in the winter but may start to sprout in the summer. If any mushrooms or toadstools are actually growing on your tree or on any of its visible roots, your tree may be dead or dying. Most mushrooms and other fungi won't start growing on healthy living wood. Their appearance is thus a sign that your tree, or parts of it, are dying. Other fungi are parasitic and take an active part in killing an otherwise healthy tree. Fungi that is growing in the soil of your yard is typically nothing to be concerned about, but you should consult with a tree services professional about any mushroom or other fungus that you find attached to the tree itself.

If you are concerned about any trees on your property, talk with a professional tree service in your area, such as Green Shadow Tree Service LLC.