Root Trouble: Signs Your Tree May Be Unstable or Unhealthy
December 4, 2025
Healthy roots are the foundation of a strong, stable tree. When those roots become damaged, compacted, or diseased, the entire tree is at risk—sometimes without you realizing it. For homeowners in West Atlanta, keeping an eye on early warning signs can prevent property damage, costly removals, and dangerous accidents.
If you suspect your tree may be in trouble, here are the key signs to look for and why calling a professional tree expert is the safest next step.
1. Visible Root Damage or Decay
Roots should be firm and well-anchored. When they’re compromised, the danger increases quickly.
Common signs include:
- Soft, spongy, or crumbling roots
- Fungal growth (like mushrooms or conks) around the base
- Strong, foul odors indicating rot
- Exposed roots that appear brittle or dry
Root rot often develops silently, but visible decay almost always means the issue is advanced.
2. Soil Heaving or Cracked Ground
If the soil around your tree appears lifted or cracked, especially after strong winds or heavy rainfall, it’s a sign the roots may be losing their grip.
You may notice:
- Soil pushed upward on one side of the trunk
- Gaps forming between the soil and the base
- Sudden leaning after the ground shifts
Soil movement is one of the earliest indicators that a tree is becoming unstable.
3. A Sudden or Increasing Lean
A gentle lean that a tree has had for years is usually harmless. But a new or worsening lean often points to root damage, soil failure, or structural decline.
Warning signs include:
- Leaning accompanied by cracked soil
- Leaning after storms
- Branches suddenly shifting direction toward the ground
- Tilted root plate (where the trunk meets the soil)
A leaning tree should always be evaluated quickly for safety.
4. Sparse Foliage and Slow Growth
When roots can’t absorb nutrients, the canopy tells the story.
Look for:
- Thinning leaves
- Dead or bare branches
- Leaves that are unusually small or pale
- Delayed leaf-out in spring
- Declining growth from year to year
These symptoms suggest the roots aren’t supplying enough water or nutrients to keep the tree healthy.
5. Cracks or Splits Near the Base of the Trunk
The lower trunk is closely connected to the root system. Damage here can reveal deeper issues.
Signs of concern include:
- Vertical splits
- Missing bark
- Soft or hollow areas
- Deep cracks during dry seasons
- Insect activity around damaged sections
These issues can reduce structural stability, making the tree more vulnerable to falling.
6. Fungal Growth Around the Base
Fungi thrive in decaying wood and are one of the strongest indicators of internal root problems.
Common fungal warning signs:
- Mushrooms forming around the soil line
- Shelf-like growths attached to the base
- Dark, wet-looking patches on the trunk
- Wood that crumbles under pressure
If fungi are growing, decay is already underway—and often extensive.
7. Branch Dieback Starting from the Top
The top of the tree—called the crown—shows stress first when roots fail.
Watch for:
- Dead branches near the upper canopy
- Sudden twig drop
- Bare patches where leaves once flourished
- Visible decline spreading downward
This pattern usually means the root system is compromised and can no longer support full canopy growth.
Why Root Problems Should Never Be Ignored
Unstable or diseased roots can lead to:
- Tree collapse or breakage
- Property damage
- Injury to people and pets
- Loss of landscape value
- Insect and disease spread to nearby trees
Early intervention is the best protection. Many root-related issues can be managed—or stopped—when detected soon enough.
Call West Atlanta Tree Service for a Professional Evaluation
If your tree is showing any signs of root trouble, don’t wait until the next storm brings it down. West Atlanta Tree Service provides expert inspections, root health assessments, stabilization solutions, and safe removal when necessary.
Our certified tree specialists can determine the cause and help restore the health and safety of your landscape.
Protect your home. Safeguard your family. Keep your trees healthy.
Contact West Atlanta Tree Service today for a thorough, reliable tree evaluation.
Tree Service, Tree Removal, Tree Trimming, Stump Removal
Bowdon, Bremen, Buchanan, Carrollton, Cedartown, Dallas, Douglasville, Franklin, Hiram, Lithia Springs, Mt. Zion, Newnan, Palmetto, Rockmart, Roopville, Tallapoosa, Temple, Villa Rica, and Whitesburg Georgia and Abernathy, Fruithurst, Heflin, Macedonia, Muscadine, and Ranburne Alabama.
West Atlanta Tree Service
Carrollton, Ga 30116
770-830-3828
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