By Ryan Billings – Tree Expert • August 20, 2025

Top 5 Signs Your Tree is a Hazard in Southern Maryland (and What to Do About It)

Trees add beauty, shade, and value to your home. But when a tree becomes unsafe, it can also pose a serious risk. Every year in Southern Maryland, falling limbs and unstable trees cause thousands of dollars in storm damage and sometimes even injuries.

The good news is many problems can be spotted early if you know what to look for. Here are the top 5 signs your tree might be a hazard and what you can do about them.

1. Leaning or Tilting Trees

If a tree in your yard suddenly begins to lean or tilt, it is often a sign of a failing root system. Some trees naturally grow at an angle, but a new or worsening lean can mean instability and risk of falling.

 

What to do:

• If the tree has always leaned, keep an eye on it but do not panic.
• If the lean looks new or has gotten worse, avoid parking cars or spending time under it.
• A sudden lean usually signals root failure, so call a professional tree service in Southern Maryland for inspection.

2. Cracks in the Trunk or Major Limbs

Deep cracks or splits in the trunk weaken the tree’s structure. Large branches with visible cracks can also snap without warning. These weak points are especially risky during storms common in Calvert and Anne Arundel County.

 What to do:

• Small cracks in bark are usually harmless.
• Deep cracks that go into the wood or cause separation are serious.
• If you see a large split or hear creaking in the wind, it is time to call a certified arborist in Maryland.

3. Dead or Hanging Branches

Dead branches are easy to spot. They look brittle, bare, or may hang loosely. These are much more likely to fall, especially in high winds. Sometimes, dead limbs mean the entire tree is in decline.

 What to do:

• Small dead branches within reach can be removed safely with a pole pruner. Always wear protective gear.
• Never climb the tree or use a ladder near power lines.
• Larger dead limbs should be handled by a professional tree trimming service in Annapolis or Calvert County.

4. Decay, Rot, or Fungus at the Base

Mushrooms, fungal growth, or hollow areas near the base are warning signs of internal decay. A tree may look healthy outside but be weak and unsafe inside.

 What to do:

• Fungus in nearby mulch is usually harmless.
• Fungus on the trunk or base is a red flag. Tap the trunk. If it sounds hollow, there is likely internal rot.
• Call a professional Southern Maryland tree removal company for a full inspection.

5. Root Problems or Soil Disturbance

Roots are the anchor of your tree. Exposed or damaged roots, or lifted soil around the base, mean the tree may not be stable.

 What to do:

• Lightly exposed roots can be protected with mulch.
• Severed or cracked roots, or shifting soil, signal serious issues.
• Do not wait. Call a local tree service in Southern Maryland to prevent the tree from toppling in the next storm.

Protect Your Home with Professional Tree Service

Your trees should be an asset, not a liability. By catching these signs early, you can often take simple steps to keep your property safe. But when the problem is beyond DIY, professional help is the safest choice.

📞 Call Spence’s Tree Service today for a free tree hazard assessment in Southern Maryland. We proudly serve homeowners in Annapolis, Calvert County, and Anne Arundel County with expert tree removal, trimming, and emergency services.