As Central Florida homeowners, our trees face unique challenges from scorching summer heat to hurricane-force winds. The oak, maple, and palm trees that beautify our properties require special attention to stay healthy and safe. But how do you know when it’s time to call in the professionals for tree trimming or pruning?
At We Do It All Trees & Landscape, we’ve spent over a decade helping homeowners throughout Polk County, Hillsborough County, and surrounding areas maintain beautiful, healthy trees. Our certified arborists have seen firsthand that many property owners wait too long before addressing tree trimming needs—often until a problem becomes an emergency requiring immediate tree removal service.
This comprehensive guide will help you identify the key warning signs that your trees need professional attention, potentially saving you from property damage, costly emergency services, or even the complete loss of a treasured shade tree.
Sign #1: Overgrown or Unbalanced Canopy
An overgrown or unbalanced tree canopy is often the most visible sign that your tree needs professional attention. In Central Florida’s climate, trees can grow rapidly during our long growing season, sometimes resulting in:
- Excessively dense foliage that blocks sunlight from reaching the inner branches and underlying landscape
- Uneven growth that makes the tree appear lopsided, affecting both aesthetics and structural integrity
- Branches growing too close together, creating friction points that damage bark and create wounds
- A canopy that appears too large for the tree’s trunk diameter to support
- Reduced air circulation that can increase the risk of fungal diseases
When a tree’s canopy becomes overgrown, it creates several problems beyond just appearance. Dense foliage restricts airflow and sunlight penetration, potentially increasing the risk of disease. An unbalanced canopy places uneven stress on the trunk and root system, making the tree more vulnerable to failure during our frequent storms.
Robert from our team at We Do It All Trees & Landscape explains: “Many Central Florida homeowners don’t realize that proper canopy thinning actually makes trees stronger and more resistant to hurricane-force winds. By selectively removing excess branches, we create pathways for wind to pass through rather than pushing against a solid wall of foliage.”
Professional arborists use specific thinning techniques that maintain the tree’s natural shape while improving its health. Unlike tree topping (an improper and harmful practice), proper crown reduction preserves the tree’s structure while reducing its size and wind resistance.
Sign #2: Dead or Dying Branches
Dead or dying branches aren’t just unsightly—they’re hazardous, especially in our storm-prone region. Professional tree care services can identify and safely remove these dangerous limbs. Look for:
- Branches with no leaves during growing season (when the rest of the tree has foliage)
- Brittle, dry wood that breaks easily when touched
- Bark that’s falling off or appears discolored with visible wounds
- Branches that hang lower than healthy ones due to decreased structural integrity
- Wood showing signs of decay, fungus growth, or insect damage
- Branches with cankers or bleeding sap
Dead branches can fall unexpectedly, potentially causing injury, property damage, or even creating liability issues if they harm a neighbor or passerby. This risk increases significantly during Florida’s thunderstorms and hurricane season when high winds place additional stress on weakened limbs.
One of our recent customers in Lithia shared: “After putting off tree trimming for years, a dead branch fell on my car during a thunderstorm. I wish I’d called We Do It All Trees & Landscape sooner—it would have saved me thousands in repairs and a lot of hassle with my insurance company.”
Professional tree pruning services remove these hazardous branches using specialized techniques that protect both the tree and surrounding property. Our certified arborists are trained to identify which branches need removal and how to cut them properly at the branch collar to promote healing and prevent disease entry. We use professional-grade equipment including chainsaws, pruning shears, and loppers appropriate for each branch’s diameter and location.
Sign #3: Branches Touching Structures or Power Lines
When tree branches make contact with your home, garage, or power lines, it’s a clear sign that professional trimming is needed immediately. This situation creates several serious problems:
- Branches rubbing against roofing materials can damage shingles and create entry points for water
- Limbs touching power lines create fire hazards and potential power outages
- Branches providing “bridges” for pests like termites, rats, and squirrels to access your home
- Excessive shade on your roof can lead to moss growth and reduced shingle lifespan
- During storms, branches can act as levers, causing more significant damage to structures
In Central Florida’s unique climate, the combination of high humidity and organic material from trees creates perfect conditions for mold and fungus growth on roofs. Keeping branches trimmed away from structures helps prevent these issues while reducing the risk of termite infestation.
Our 24/7 emergency tree service is often called for situations involving trees contacting power lines. However, regular professional pruning can prevent these emergencies from occurring in the first place.
“We recommend maintaining at least 10 feet of clearance between tree branches and your home,” advises our certified arborist. “For power lines, that clearance should be even greater—and trimming near power lines should always be left to professionals due to the extreme danger of electrocution. Never attempt to use pruning shears, loppers, or any tools near utility lines.”
Tree care professionals have the proper tools, training, and insurance to safely manage these high-risk situations. We coordinate with utility companies when necessary to ensure safety and compliance with local regulations.
Sign #4: Signs of Disease or Pest Infestation
Florida’s warm, humid climate creates ideal conditions for tree diseases and pest infestations. Early intervention through professional pruning can often save affected trees. Watch for these warning signs:
- Unusual spots, discoloration, or growths on leaves or fruit
- Cankers, bleeding sap, or oozing areas on the bark
- Premature leaf drop, wilting, or signs of stress
- Visible insect activity or evidence like bore holes from wood-boring insects
- Mushrooms or fungal growth at the base, on the trunk, or on branches
- Thinning canopy or dieback in specific sections of the tree
When disease or pests attack a tree, strategic pruning removes affected areas before the problem spreads throughout the entire tree. Our experienced arborists can identify specific diseases common to Central Florida trees such as oak wilt, anthracnose, and powdery mildew, then recommend the appropriate treatment approach.
One Lakeland customer recalled: “I noticed some strange spots on my oak tree’s leaves and called We Do It All Trees & Landscape. They identified oak leaf blister fungus and trimmed the affected branches. With their treatment recommendations including proper mulching and fertilizer application, the tree recovered completely instead of declining further.”
Professional tree care services understand the specific pests and diseases that affect Florida’s native and ornamental trees, including:
- Oak wilt affecting various oak species
- Laurel wilt (affecting avocado trees and redbay)
- Pine bark beetles that can devastate pine trees
- Lethal bronzing disease affecting palm trees
- Citrus greening affecting fruit trees
- Termite and carpenter ant infestations
- Fungal diseases that thrive in our humid climate
Early intervention through proper pruning, combined with appropriate pest control measures and fertilization, can make the difference between saving or losing a valuable tree. Removing infected tissue and improving air circulation can significantly reduce disease pressure.
Sign #5: Storm Damage or Structural Weakness
In Central Florida, we’re no strangers to severe weather. From summer thunderstorms to hurricane season, our trees endure significant stress. After any major storm, inspect your trees for:
- Cracked, split, or broken branches hanging in the canopy
- Leaning trunk (especially if it’s a new lean after a storm)
- Exposed roots or soil heaving around the base
- V-shaped branch unions that appear to be splitting
- Multiple trunks that seem to be separating
- Lightning damage including vertical splits in the trunk
- Bark damage from high winds or flying debris
Even without storm damage, some trees develop structural weaknesses over time that make them vulnerable to failure. Professional arborists are trained to identify these issues early through risk assessment, when corrective pruning can still save the tree.
“After Hurricane Irma, we saw so many trees that could have been saved if they’d received proper structural pruning earlier,” notes our team leader. “Proper pruning techniques actually strengthen trees by encouraging stronger growth patterns and removing vulnerable branches before they fail.”
At We Do It All Trees & Landscape, we perform thorough assessments after storms to identify both obvious and hidden damage. Our emergency response team is available 24/7 to address immediate hazards, while our regular tree maintenance services help prevent future storm damage.
For trees with valuable aesthetic or historical significance, we may recommend cabling or bracing to provide additional support rather than complete removal. These techniques can extend the life of a tree while reducing risk to surrounding structures.
The Best Time for Tree Trimming in Central Florida
While the signs above indicate when a tree needs attention, timing your tree trimming appropriately can maximize benefits and minimize stress on the trees. In Central Florida’s unique climate, we recommend:
- Late Winter/Early Spring (February-March): Ideal for most deciduous trees like maples, oaks, and birch, as they’re dormant but about to enter new growth phase. Pruning during dormancy allows you to see the branch structure clearly and promotes vigorous spring growth.
- After Flowering: For spring-flowering trees like dogwood, magnolia, and cherry, wait until blooms fade to avoid removing next year’s flower buds. This ensures you’ll enjoy beautiful blossoms the following year.
- Early Fall: Good for summer-flowering trees and to prepare for hurricane season. This timing allows trees to heal before winter while removing potentially hazardous limbs before storm season intensifies.
- Avoid Summer Heat: Minimize major pruning during June-August when heat stress is highest. Fresh pruning cuts during intense heat can stress trees and make them more susceptible to insect attacks.
- Fruit Trees: Prune in late winter while still dormant to encourage fruit production. Different species have specific requirements—apple trees, for instance, benefit from different pruning techniques than citrus trees.
However, hazardous conditions should be addressed immediately regardless of season. Dead, diseased, or dangerous limbs don’t follow a calendar—they should be removed as soon as they’re identified to prevent injury or property damage.
Greg Healy, one of our satisfied customers, shared: “I had a tree go down in a hurricane requiring stump grinding/removal. I also had some general brush clean-up and some tree pruning done. I called a few places but We Do It All was the most responsive. They visited my house same day, gave me an estimate (which I thought was very fair) same day, and they took care of all the work the following day. The guys who did the job were very respectful of the property. They did a great job, and cleaned up nicely before leaving.”
Professional Tree Care vs. DIY Pruning
While some homeowners attempt DIY tree trimming with pruning shears or loppers, professional tree care services offer significant advantages, especially in Central Florida’s unique environment:
Safety First
Tree pruning involves heights, heavy limbs, and powerful tools—a dangerous combination. Professional arborists have:
- Specialized equipment including proper chainsaws, pole pruners, and safety gear
- Training in proper cutting techniques to avoid injury
- Insurance coverage in case of accidents or property damage
- Experience identifying and mitigating risks before they become problems
- Knowledge of proper rope techniques for lowering large limbs safely
Tree Health Expertise
Different tree species require different pruning approaches. Our certified arborists understand:
- How Florida’s native trees respond to various pruning methods
- The optimal cutting locations at the branch collar to promote healing and prevent disease entry
- How much foliage can be safely removed without stressing the tree (generally no more than 25% in a single season)
- Identifying and addressing species-specific diseases and pests
- When to combine pruning with other treatments like fertilization or pest control
Long-Term Benefits
Professional tree care isn’t just about immediate aesthetics—it creates lasting benefits:
- Stronger structural integrity during storms through proper thinning techniques
- Improved air circulation reducing fungal disease risk
- Enhanced fruit production for fruit-bearing trees through strategic bud management
- Extended tree lifespan through reduced stress and injury
- Increased property value through better curb appeal and reduced liability
- Proper debris disposal and cleanup
As Anel Williams, one of our repeat customers, notes: “I have used their service a few times, Rob is the best by far. Very reasonably priced and definitely gets the job done right the first time. When I call him for a quote he is here usually same day, if not the next day. He has his crew here within a day or two. If you’re looking for quick service I highly recommend.”
Benefits of Regular Tree Maintenance
Implementing a regular tree care schedule with professional pruning services provides numerous benefits beyond addressing immediate concerns:
Enhanced Tree Health and Longevity
Regular maintenance by certified arborists helps:
- Remove diseased and damaged tissue before problems spread
- Improve nutrient distribution throughout the tree
- Manage pest populations before they reach infestation levels
- Reduce competition between branches for light and resources
- Identify early signs of stress that might otherwise go unnoticed
Improved Landscape Aesthetics
Professional tree care enhances your entire landscape:
- Creates balanced, natural-looking tree shapes that complement your property
- Allows more sunlight to reach lawns and garden beds beneath trees
- Coordinates with other landscape elements like shrubs and flower beds
- Maintains appropriate scale between trees and structures
- Showcases seasonal features like flowering, fruit production, or fall color
Reduced Maintenance and Cleanup
Proactive tree care reduces ongoing work:
- Fewer fallen branches and twigs to clean up after storms
- Reduced leaf and fruit debris in gutters and on lawns
- Less damage to underlying plants and turf
- Minimized need for emergency services
- More efficient lawn maintenance around properly pruned trees
Protection for Your Property
Strategic pruning protects your investment:
- Prevents damage to roofs, siding, and windows
- Reduces risk of foundation issues from invasive roots
- Minimizes liability from falling branches or tree failure
- Protects driveways and sidewalks from root damage
- Maintains appropriate clearance from utility lines
As our arborists often explain, “The most cost-effective approach to tree care is prevention through regular maintenance rather than reaction to problems after they develop.”
Trust the Local Experts for Your Tree Trimming Needs
As a family-owned tree care company serving Central Florida for over 10 years, We Do It All Trees & Landscape understands the unique challenges our local trees face. Our commitment to quality, fair pricing, and exceptional customer service has made us the trusted choice for tree care throughout Polk County, Hillsborough County, and surrounding areas.
When you notice any of the five warning signs we’ve discussed, don’t wait until a small issue becomes a major problem. Our team of experienced tree care professionals is ready to assess your trees and provide the expert care they need, whether that’s strategic pruning, disease treatment, or emergency services.
We handle everything from routine maintenance to complex projects:
- Crown thinning and reduction
- Deadwood removal
- Structural pruning
- Vista pruning for views
- Clearance pruning near structures
- Complete debris removal and cleanup
For a free estimate or to schedule a consultation with a certified arborist, call or text us today at (813) 588-0120. Remember, we’re available 24/7 for emergency tree services when you need us most.
We Do It All, so you don’t have to!
