As much as we love trees for their beauty, shade, and environmental benefits, they can become a serious hazard if not properly maintained. Each winter in the Western Cape, strong winds and heavy rains put trees under immense stress, increasing the risk of falling branches, uprooted trees, and costly property damage.

At Overberg Arborists, we’ve seen firsthand the havoc an unstable or neglected tree can cause. From blocked driveways and power outages to structural damage and personal injury, tree-related accidents can escalate quickly.

The good news? Many of these incidents are entirely preventable.

Here’s exactly how to spot trouble before it starts and what you can do to keep your trees - and your property - safe this winter.

1. Watch for Dead or Dying Branches

Deadwood is one of the most obvious signs of a hazardous tree.

If branches appear dry, brittle, or leafless while the rest of the tree looks healthy, they pose a serious risk of breaking off without warning, especially in high winds.

What to do:

• Check for dead branches now before storms arrive.

• If you spot any, have them pruned immediately by a professional.

• Regular seasonal pruning can prevent dangerous branch failures.

2. Inspect for Cracks or Splits in the Trunk

A tree’s trunk is its backbone - if it’s compromised, the entire tree is at risk. Deep cracks, holes, or splits can indicate structural instability due to internal decay or external damage (such as lightning strikes or physical impact).

What to do:

• Walk around your tree and check for visible cracks in the bark.

• If you find large splits or holes, call a professional for an assessment.

• Trees with severe trunk damage may need bracing or removal to prevent failure.

3. Identify Leaning or Unstable Trees

A naturally leaning tree isn’t necessarily a problem, but a sudden or worsening lean is a major warning sign.

Trees often tilt due to root damage, soil erosion, or storm impact, making them far more likely to fall.

What to do:

• Examine the base of your trees for cracked or disturbed soil.

• If a tree is leaning toward a structure, power line, or driveway, call an expert immediately.

• In some cases, cabling or staking can help stabilize the tree, but a severely leaning tree may need removal.

4. Check for Signs of Decay or Fungal Growth

Fungi growing at the base of your tree - particularly mushrooms - often signal internal rot. Even if a tree looks fine from the outside, it could be hollowing from the inside out, increasing the risk of unexpected collapse.

What to do:

• Look for mushroom growth on or around the tree’s base.

• Tap the trunk—if it sounds hollow, internal decay is likely present.

• Never ignore fungal growth. Have a professional assess the tree’s health to determine the next steps.

5. Protect and Monitor Tree Roots

Roots anchor a tree and provide vital nutrients. When roots are exposed, cut, or compacted due to construction or erosion, the entire tree becomes unstable. Root damage often goes unnoticed until it’s too late.

What to do:

• Avoid driving over or placing heavy materials near tree roots.

  
  

• If you’ve had recent construction work near your trees, check for exposed or severed roots.

  
  

• Contact a tree specialist if you notice significant root exposure or damage.

How to Prevent Tree Hazards This Winter

Preventative care is the best way to ensure your trees remain assets rather than liabilities. Here’s how to keep your property safe as winter storms approach:

1. Schedule a Professional Inspection: If you’re unsure about the stability of a tree, don’t guess—have it checked. Our professional arborists can assess risks and recommend solutions.

   
   

2. Trim and Prune Before Storm Season: Weak branches are most likely to fall in heavy winds. Winter pruning helps trees withstand storms and prevents unnecessary damage.

   
   

3. Act Fast on Warning Signs: If a tree is leaning, has cracks, or shows signs of decay, delaying action increases the risk. Address the problem early to prevent accidents.

4. Reinforce Unstable Trees: Cabling, bracing, or support stakes can help save trees that might otherwise fail. However, these methods should only be applied by professionals.

   
   

5. Keep Your Property Clear of Potential Impact Zones: Avoid parking cars or placing outdoor furniture under large, unstable branches. High-risk trees near homes or driveways should be inspected urgently.

Need Expert Tree Care? Let’s Keep Your Property Safe!

Trees are an essential part of the Western Cape’s landscape, but winter weather puts them to the test. By staying vigilant and taking proactive steps, you can prevent accidents, protect your property, and ensure your trees remain healthy for years to come.

Don’t wait until a storm exposes hidden risks. If you suspect any of your trees may be unstable, contact Overberg Arborists today for a free consultation. Our team of tree care professionals is here to provide expert guidance, maintenance, and, when necessary, safe removals.

Call us today to schedule your tree safety assessment before winter strikes!

Final Thought: Be proactive, not reactive. The best time to assess your trees is before the storm, not after the damage is done!

To keep on top of the latest arboriculture news and gain access to awesome deals and discounts, subscribe to the list :)

Thanks for being a contributing member of our urban forest

The OA Team