Are there some trees that are more dangerous near your house or near a power line, for that matter, than other trees? ANDERSEN: Pine trees, the conifer type of tree that gets very tall and full of foliage up at the top. We find those trees to be the most likely to break in high winds or under ice and snow loads in storms.
Full Answer
Are pine trees poisonous?
Some pine trees are poisonous. Pine ( Pinus spp.) is a huge genus of evergreen trees that vary widely in size and form. Most are able to tolerate severe growing conditions, including drought, harsh winds and poor soil. The needles of many pine trees are toxic and may be dangerous, particularly to cattle and other livestock.
Are some trees more dangerous near your house than others?
Are there some trees that are more dangerous near your house or near a power line, for that matter, than other trees? ANDERSEN: Pine trees, the conifer type of tree that gets very tall and full of foliage up at the top. We find those trees to be the most likely to break in high winds or under ice and snow loads in storms.
What happens if you thin a pine tree?
If a pine grove is thinned for house construction, the roots of remaining trees are damaged and can begin to rot. Similarly, pines planted in shallow soil or in an area with bedrock will not develop the deep roots they need to survive a storm.
Are pine tree roots weaker than deciduous?
Pine-tree roots are not, by nature, shorter or weaker than deciduous tree roots. Root length varies among species but pine roots typically spread out more than two times the height of the tree. But urbanization takes it toll on tree roots.
Why are pine trees susceptible to wind?
Can pine trees survive a storm?
Is a pine tree weaker than a deciduous tree?
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Are pine trees more likely to fall?
Evergreen trees, pines in particular, are more likely to come down because their canopy is always present and it's thick and heavy -- “a windsail effect,” Scow said.
Do large pine trees fall over easily?
ANDERSEN: Pine trees, the conifer type of tree that gets very tall and full of foliage up at the top. We find those trees to be the most likely to break in high winds or under ice and snow loads in storms.
Should tall pine trees be cut down?
If your pine tree poses a threat to health and safety, then it should be professionally removed as soon as possible. If the tree has sustained storm damage, if it's leaning over too far, or has lost its structural integrity, don't wait to have it cut down.
How do you know if a pine tree is going to fall?
13 Signs a Tree is Going to FallWarning Sign #1: Your Tree Has Dead Branches. ... Warning Sign #2: There Are Hollow Spots in the Trunk. ... Warning Sign #3: The Roots Are Raising Up. ... Warning Sign #4: Leaves Are Missing Close to the Trunk. ... Warning Sign #5: The Trunk Has Big Cracks or Bark That's Missing.More items...•
How far should a pine tree be from a house?
about 15 feet awayWhile it's always wise to plant trees about 15 feet away from your house, sometimes you are in a situation where you purchased a home with existing mature trees. Then you have to assess how that tree's continued growth may impact your home.
Are pine trees safe near house?
Pine trees (Pinus) are a common and attractive landscape feature in many yards, and luckily, the pine tree root structure makes it a safe tree to plant near homes.
How tall is too tall for a tree?
By analyzing the interplay between these forces, a team of biologists led by George Koch of Northern Arizona University calculated the theoretical maximum tree height, or the point at which opposing forces balance out and a tree stops growing. This point lies somewhere between 400 and 426 feet (122 and 130 m).
How do you stop pine trees from growing taller?
There is no way to stop a pine tree from growing taller without causing significant harm to the tree. Removing the top portion of a pine robs it of its most important foliage and invites disease.
How long do pine trees live?
Pines are long lived and typically reach ages of 100–1,000 years, some even more. The longest-lived is the Great Basin bristlecone pine (P. longaeva). One individual of this species, dubbed "Methuselah", is one of the world's oldest living organisms at around 4,800 years old.
Which trees are most likely to fall in a storm?
Though all trees are vulnerable to high winds, experts say some varieties are at greater risk of failure, including Bradford pears, cedar, balsam fir, white spruce, several varieties of pines, sometimes hemlocks, and older water oaks and willow oaks, especially in areas where the soil has been modified or their area ...
Are pine trees strong in storms?
And some types of trees are more susceptible to damage. “Pine trees are really bad about it they'll get stress cracks inside and you won't know it and a lot of pines after storms will die,” says Cage.
How likely is a tree to fall on house?
12% in any one year. Yup, a 12% chance of that branch falling.
How much wind can a pine tree withstand?
At What Wind Speed Do Trees Fall? Almost all tree trunks break, regardless of their size or species. Critical wind speeds, in which no tree can withstand punishment for any continuous length of time, is around 90 mph.
Are pine trees strong in storms?
And some types of trees are more susceptible to damage. “Pine trees are really bad about it they'll get stress cracks inside and you won't know it and a lot of pines after storms will die,” says Cage.
How often pine trees fall?
Every year, evergreens experience a seasonal needle drop that is a normal part of the plant's cycle. Needles of conifers have varying life spans and do not remain attached indefinitely to the tree. Many evergreen needles, as they age, will turn yellow, then brown, and drop off after one to several years.
What causes pine trees to fall?
One main reason, all three experts agree, is the phenomenon known as “windthrow” which uproots a tree. “The tree trunk acts as a lever and so the force applied to the roots and trunk increases with height,” says Foster. “Taller trees are more susceptible to windthrow.”
What are pine needles used for?
Native Americans and other cultures have brewed pine needles into tea for medicinal use for centuries. This includes Blue spruce ( Picea pungens), Douglas fir ( Pseudotsuga menziesii) and ponderosa pine. Douglas fir may be beneficial for arthritis. Pine needles, in general, have been used for respiratory problems and externally for a number ...
What zone does yew pine grow in?
Yew pine grows in USDA zones 7 through 9. M.H. Dyer began her writing career as a staff writer at a community newspaper and is now a full-time commercial writer. She writes about a variety of topics, with a focus on sustainable, pesticide- and herbicide-free gardening.
Is pine tree needles toxic?
The needles of many pine trees are toxic and may be dangerous, particularly to cattle and other livestock. Advertisement. Some plants tagged as pines, including Norfolk Island pine ( Araucaria heterophylla) and Yew pine ( Podocarpus macrophyllus ), are not true pines, but both contain toxic compounds and should be planted with care ...
Is a Norfolk Island pine tree a true pine?
Some plants tagged as pines, including Norfolk Island pine ( Araucaria heterophylla) and Yew pine ( Podocarpus macrophyllus ), are not true pines, but both contain toxic compounds and should be planted with care when you're looking for evergreen trees to grace your yard.
Is pine tree poisonous?
Some pine trees are poisonous. Pine ( Pinus spp.) is a huge genus of evergreen trees that vary widely in size and form. Most are able to tolerate severe growing conditions, including drought, harsh winds and poor soil. The needles of many pine trees are toxic and may be dangerous, particularly to cattle and other livestock.
Can you use pine needle tea on cattle?
However, the risk may not be as severe and life-threatening as it is for cattle and other livestock. Although people often enjoy pine needle tea with no ill effect, pine needles are not recommended for use by humans and pets. Advertisement.
Is Norfolk Island pine safe for dogs?
Norfolk Island pine, also known as Australian pine, is an evergreen plant most often grown indoors; however, the plant is suitable for growing outdoors in USDA zones 9 through 11. The plant may cause vomiting and depression when ingested by cats and dogs. Norfolk Island pine is believed to be safe for humans; however, some people may experience skin irritation after handling the plant.
How Tall Can a Pine Tree Grow?
The average height of a pine tree can vary wildly among different species. And while each species has an average range, it’s possible for some pine trees to significantly exceed the maximum height.
How Do You Reduce the Height of a Pine Tree?
Since you aren’t able to cut the top off of your pine tree, you’re left with limited options if you feel that it’s too tall. You will need to live with it at its current height, or cut the tree down.
Can I Cut the Top off of a Pine Tree?
Although many plants can be successfully pruned by cutting off the top, this is not recommended for pine trees. Doing so can ruin the natural form of the tree, and invite a host of diseases and other issues.
What trees grow slower on property?
The idea is to try to pick or leave trees on your property that are slower growing and grow to a smaller height, like hophornbean trees, ironwood trees or holly trees, trees of smaller stature.
How close to the house is a tree?
It depends on the size of the tree and the type of tree, but more likely, if it's overhanging your house, it's probably too close to your house when, say, the house or the structure is within probably 15 feet of the trunk. SIEGEL: You said it depends on what the tree is.
Does it matter if the wind is strong enough to damage a tree?
But, more likely, if the wind event is strong enough, it doesn't matter the condition of your tree. It could be the healthiest tree on the block and, if there's a strong enough wind or a damaging enough ice storm, everything will go in its path.
Do people like trees?
Most people like trees — right up until a storm like last Friday's mid-Atlantic "derecho" knocks one into their car. So when is a tree merely nice to look at and when does it become a hazard? Robert Siegel talks to Tchukki Andersen, a staff arborist at the Tree Care Industry Association, about how homeowners can safely care for their trees.
What Kills Pine Trees?
Pine trees can potentially live for thousands of years but often have their lives cut short due to disease and pest infestations.
How much does a pine tree weigh?
Weighing in at an average of five and a half thousand pounds, a dead pine tree standing precariously on your property can be a serious situation – especially if it’s a threat to your or your neighbor’s property.
How Long Will A Dead Pine Tree Stand?
Unfortunately, there’s no way to predict exactly how long a dead pine tree will remain standing for.
Should I Remove My Dead Pine Tree?
Yes, you should get your dead pine tree removed as soon as possible but do not attempt to do it yourself unless you are a professional.
Can I Cut Down A Dead Pine Tree On My Own?
Unless you are a professional, you should not attempt to cut down a dead pine tree on your own.
What to do if a tree is leaning wrong?
Wedges. If the tree is leaning the wrong way, wedges will have to be hammered in to force the tree to fall in the opposite direction. Once the boring cut is made and depending on how the tree is leaning, wedges may have to be hammered into the sides of the tree to ensure it falls the way you need it to.
What does it mean when pine trees shed?
Peeling bark, browning needles, and needles being shed before the end of summer are all signs that things are not well with your pine tree.
How do you know if a pine tree is sick?
Bark Peeling. One tell-tale sign of a sick pine tree is bark peeling away. A healthy pine tree should retain its bark – or at least most of its bark – throughout all four seasons of the year. When a pine tree becomes sick, however, it may shed its bark.
What does it mean when a pine tree has a missing bark?
As long as the damage is minor, this shouldn’t cause any reason for concern. But large sections of missing bark from a pine tree is a sign of a sick and dying tree. Brown Needles. Pine trees should maintain their distinct green color throughout the year.
Why are my pine needles turning brown?
If you discover the needles have turned brown or yellow, it could indicate the presence of disease. Dothistroma, for instance, has a tendency to turn pine tree needles brown. If a pine tree is suffering from wilt, on the other hand, its needles may be grayish-green. Early Needle Drop.
What is the most common evergreen tree in the United States?
Pine trees are among the common variety of evergreens in the United States. They are found throughout much of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s hardiness zones 3-11, characterized by the presence of pine needles and pine cones.
What is the phone number to remove a tree in Texas?
If you are in our service area, Williamson County and Northern Travis County in Texas, give us a call at 512-940-0799 and we’ll come out and give you an estimate of what it will take to save your tree or remove it for you.
How many people die from falling trees?
Leaving a dead tree on your property is just asking for trouble. Statistics show that nearly 100 people are killed by falling trees in the United States each year. Contact a professional tree removal company ASAP to keep your home and family safe.
When do pine trees shed their needles?
Normally, pine trees will shed their needles in the late summer to early fall. The first needles to drop are the ones on the tips of branches, while the last ones to drop are the needles located deeper inside towards the base of the tree.
How to tell if a tree is dying?
Notice how thin the leaves are at the top of the front trees, while all the other trees have a full canopy of leaves. There may be clues at the base of the trees that tell you why they are dying.
How to tell if a tree has root problems?
Examine the base of the trunk and the ground around the bottom of a tree. It’s here that you may find your first evidence of root problems or other hazards. Pull back any ivy, mulch, or ground cover (watch out for poison ivy !) and look closely where the trunk meets the ground.
What does the missing bark on a tree on a tree trunk mean?
The missing bark on this tree along with the mushrooms growing on the trunk tell us that this tree is dead and decaying.
What does fungus mean in trees?
Fungus is a strong indicator of root or trunk decay. And when a tree’s anchoring roots are rotting, decayed, or cut, the tree is at risk of falling over. If too much of the trunk is decayed, it can buckle or break.
What does it mean when a tree turns brown?
When all the leaves turn brown during the growing season, the tree is dead.
How much does a large tree add to your property?
Just one large tree might add thousands of dollars to your property value, or its canopy could save you hundreds of dollars each year in air conditioning costs. Not to mention all the benefits a lovely tree brings to your quality of life.
What does sawdust tell you?
The sawdust (frass) at the base tells you that borer beetles are attacking the tree.
What is the tallest pine tree?
The sugar pine is the tallest of the pine trees. Also called the sugar cone pine, this massive tree is the tallest species of pine in the world. Sugar pines also have the longest cones of any tree in the Pinaceae family. This pine species gets its common name from the sweet resin in the tree.
What are pine trees?
Pines are resinous trees that are related to other types of conifers such as fir trees, cedars, and spruces. Different types of pine trees grow in many different environments that include cold regions in North America, rain forests, and hot sandy deserts.
How tall is a lambertiana pine tree?
Being the tallest of the pine trees, the subgenus lambertiana grows up to 270 ft. (82 m). However, their average size is between 130 and 195 ft. (40 – 60 m). Slender pine needles grow in bundles of 5 and can measure up to 4.14” (14 cm) long. The long woody dark brown cones can grow up to 20” (50 cm) long.
How tall do white pine trees grow?
Pine tree identification. Eastern white pines are a tall species and grow to up to 230 ft. (70 m). Their cones are long and slender growing to 6” (16 cm). The eastern white pine has pine leaves made up of clusters of 5 pine needles.
How big do pine trees get?
These majestic pines grow to between 100 and 110 ft. (30 – 35 m) and they have wide trunks up to 5 ft. (1.5 m) in diameter. Dark green needles are about 8” (20 cm) long and grow in bundles of three.
What is the most popular Christmas tree in North America?
The eastern white pine is a popular type of Christmas tree. The eastern white pine is one of the most important pine species in North America. These are fast-growing trees and one of the tallest species of pines. The pine needles grow in small clusters and have a bluish-green appearance.
What type of pine has a bluish green bark?
Scots (Scotch) pines have bluish-green short needles. Scots (Scotch) pine trees are stunning evergreen conifers that have thick scaly brown bark, bluish-green needles, and small red to tan cones. Scots pines generally have a forked trunk that gives the medium-sized pine 2 flat masses of foliage.
How much does an arborist cost?
Costs for arborist services vary, but some initial consultations can range from free to $75.
How much does a tree add to the value of a home?
On one hand, trees offer an awesome return on investment. A mature tree can add $1,000 to $10,000 to the value of your home, according to the Council of Tree and Landscape Appraisers. Plus, trees can reduce your heating and cooling bills, clean the air, improve your attitude, and help your curb appeal, Monahan adds.
Do big trees mean doom and gloom?
Big trees don’t always mean doom and gloom. Buying a home with the right tree can put cash directly into your pocket—when you sell the house, or even if you only sell the tree. Take, for example, Michigan homeowner Peg Theobald, who purchased a house closely flanked by an enormous tree.
Do big trees attract guests?
And big trees can attract other unwanted guests, too.
Can kids have a treehouse?
Your kids can have a treehouse. You can dangle fairy lights from the branches and host Pinterest-perfect parties. If you’re shopping for a home, you’re probably searching for something that looks as though it came straight out of your dream. But if you’re lucky enough to find it, wait a beat before you rush to make an offer: Those big trees can ...
Can a large tree be a liability?
Large trees can also be a huge liability. “Rot issues that go unidentified can fester over time, leading to property damage and potential bodily harm,” Monahan says. 2. You’ll need an extra inspection. That sky-high oak calls for another step in the home-buying process: hiring a professional arborist to inspect it.
Why are pine trees susceptible to wind?
Pines. Pine trees are particularly susceptible to wind because they are often the tallest trees in the forest. Many pines are fast-growing species that pioneer a site and rapidly rise to dominance. As the overstorey forest layer, pines suffer most from windthrow and have least protection from surrounding trees.
Can pine trees survive a storm?
Similarly, pines planted in shallow soil or in an area with bedrock will not develop the deep roots they need to survive a storm. If you care about your pine's health, don't allow its root area to be excavated or compacted.
Is a pine tree weaker than a deciduous tree?
Pine-tree roots are not, by nature, shorter or weaker than deciduous tree roots. Root length varies among species but pine roots typically spread out more than two times the height of the tree. But urbanization takes it toll on tree roots.