Even the strongest trees can develop structural weaknesses that put them at risk of failure. Heavy branches, storm damage, or poor growth patterns can leave a tree vulnerable to breaking, which may endanger nearby structures, vehicles, or people. Fortunately, professional arborists can use techniques such as tree cabling and tree bracing to provide extra support, improving safety and extending the life of a tree. At West Coast Tree Co., we provide expert tree cabling and bracing in the greater Ventura, CA area. Understanding how these methods work can help you decide if they might be the right solution for your trees. Tree cabling involves the use of high-strength cables that are installed in the upper canopy of a tree. These cables connect major limbs or stems, reducing the risk of breakage by limiting how far branches can move in high winds or under heavy loads. Cabling is most often used for trees with multiple trunks or large limbs that are prone to splitting. By redistributing stress, cabling helps maintain a tree’s natural structure while lowering the chance of a catastrophic failure. Tree bracing, on the other hand, offers support at a lower point in the tree. This method uses steel rods inserted through weak or cracked areas, particularly where two trunks or large branches join. Bracing provides direct reinforcement, helping to prevent existing cracks from worsening and offering stability where the tree’s natural strength is compromised. It is often used in combination with cabling to give a tree the best possible chance of long-term survival. Both cabling and bracing should only be performed by a trained arborist. Professional installation ensures that the correct equipment and techniques are used to avoid causing further damage to the tree. An arborist can also assess whether these methods are suitable for your situation, since not every tree can be safely supported. In some cases, removal may be the better option, especially if the tree is diseased, severely damaged, or poses an unavoidable hazard. Tree Services in Ventura, CA For expert tree care in Ventura, CA and the surrounding area, contact our team at West Coast Tree Co. Feel free to give us a call to ask for a tree services estimate in Ventura, Carpinteria, or Thousand Oaks!
When a tree begins to decline, it can quickly become a safety hazard. Dead or dying trees are often structurally unstable and may fall during a storm or even under their own weight. To protect your property and loved ones, it's important to recognize the signs of a failing tree. At West Coast Tree Co., we can accurately identify dead and dying trees, and then safely remove them as necessary. Here are four indications that a tree may be dead or dying and should be evaluated by a professional arborist. Leaning with Exposed Roots A sudden or pronounced lean, especially when accompanied by exposed roots, is a major red flag. This usually indicates a failure in the tree’s root system, which anchors the tree and delivers water and nutrients. If a tree begins to lean significantly, particularly after a storm or period of heavy rain, the roots may be damaged or decayed. In some cases, the tree’s roots can become so compromised that the tree is no longer stable and could fall with little warning. Large Dead Branches Dead or dying branches, especially in the upper canopy, are clear signs of distress. If you notice large limbs with no leaves during the growing season or brittle branches that snap easily, the tree may be in the process of dying. These limbs can break off and cause damage, making prompt action necessary. No Leaf Growth A tree that doesn’t produce leaves during the growing season is likely dead or in serious trouble. While some trees naturally leaf out later than others, a complete absence of foliage by early summer usually means the tree is no longer alive. If only parts of the tree are leafless, this may point to localized disease or damage, but full canopy failure is often a sign of death Fungal Growth at the Base The presence of fungi growing around the base of a tree can be a sign of internal rot. Fungi feed on decaying wood, so their presence often indicates that the interior of the tree is compromised. Once the interior wood starts breaking down, the structural integrity of the tree is at risk, increasing the chances of collapse. Tree Removal in Ventura, CA For expert tree removal in Ventura, CA and the surrounding area, contact our team at West Coast Tree Co. Feel free to give us a call to ask for a tree services estimate in Ventura, Carpinteria, or Thousand Oaks!
