Mature trees are a valuable part of any property in Milton, Ga. They provide shade, privacy, curb appeal, and in many cases, help define the entire character of the landscape. But when a tree starts to decline, it doesn’t always fall over immediately. The signs can be subtle—until it becomes a serious hazard.
At Complete Horticulture & Tree Service, we regularly inspect trees on estate homes, golf course communities, and high-end properties throughout Milton, GA. Many of the trees we remove could have been dealt with earlier—before they posed a risk to people, property, or neighboring homes.
If you’re unsure whether a tree on your property is just stressed or on its last legs, here are the top signs to watch for—and when to call in the tree removal professionals.
1. Bare Branches or Thin Canopy During the Growing Season
If it’s spring or summer in Milton and your tree still hasn’t leafed out, or its canopy looks patchy and thin, that’s a red flag. Healthy trees should have full, green foliage by early May.
Look for:
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Branches with no leaves or very sparse leaf coverage
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Sections of the tree that look noticeably barer than others
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Leaves that are smaller, yellowing, or curling at the edges
What it might mean:
Root problems, disease, pest infestation, or general decline from age.
2. Dead or Falling Branches
It’s normal for trees to lose small twigs or a limb now and then. But if large branches are falling frequently—or if you see deadwood in the canopy—you may be dealing with a dying tree.
Look for:
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Brittle, hollow branches
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Limbs that snap off easily in wind or rain
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Hanging or broken branches stuck in the upper canopy (widowmakers)
Dead limbs not only indicate health problems, but they’re also a serious safety hazard—especially around driveways, patios, or outdoor living areas.
3. Trunk Damage: Cracks, Rot, or Fungus
The trunk is the core support system of your tree. If it’s damaged, the entire tree becomes unstable.
Check for:
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Deep vertical cracks or splits
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Peeling bark or missing bark patches
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Visible rot or soft, spongy wood
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Mushrooms or fungus growing at the base or along the trunk
Fungal growth typically signals internal decay, and a tree that looks okay on the outside might be hollow inside.
4. Exposed Roots or Soil Movement Around the Base
Tree roots are often overlooked, but they’re critical to a tree’s health and structural integrity.
Signs of trouble:
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Raised soil or cracked earth around the base
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Exposed roots that are lifting out of the ground
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Mushy or overly damp soil near the root flare
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Visible decay or fungal growth near the roots
If your tree has started leaning after a storm or the soil looks disturbed, the roots may be compromised—a serious risk on Milton’s larger properties with steep grades or clay-heavy soil.
5. Pest or Disease Infestation
Certain pests—like borers, beetles, and scale insects—can devastate trees quickly, especially if they go unnoticed for a season or two. Milton homeowners should also be alert to tree diseases like oak wilt or root rot.
Warning signs include:
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Holes in the trunk or sawdust at the base
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Leaf discoloration or premature leaf drop
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Sticky residue on leaves or surrounding patio surfaces
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Black, sooty mold or white, powdery mildew
Once an infestation sets in, it can spread to nearby trees and plants.
When to Act (And Why Timing Matters)
If you suspect a tree on your Milton property may be dying, don’t wait until limbs start falling—or worse, the entire tree comes down in a storm. Removing a tree proactively is safer, often less expensive, and allows for controlled removal without emergency response pricing.
A dying tree can:
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Damage your roof, siding, or vehicles
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Injure people or pets
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Attract termites and pests
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Lower your property’s curb appeal and value
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Create liability if it falls across a property line
Schedule a Free Tree Inspection in Milton, GA
At Complete Horticulture & Tree Service, we offer free on-site tree health assessments for homeowners in Milton, Crabapple, Birmingham Road, and surrounding areas. Our expert team will:
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Evaluate tree health, structure, and root stability
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Identify signs of disease or infestation
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Recommend trimming, treatment, or removal
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Provide a written estimate and plan of action
Whether you’re concerned about one tree or an entire wooded area, we’re here to help protect your landscape and your home.
Call 770-243-3984 or visit
🌐 completehorticulture.com to schedule your free tree inspection.
Proudly serving Milton, Alpharetta, Canton, Woodstock, and North Fulton County with expert tree care and removal services.
