Ash Rock Tree Service Blog

When a big tree dies, it becomes more than just an eyesore—it becomes a serious safety risk. Dead trees are unstable and can fall without warning, potentially damaging your home, harming people, or taking down power lines. If you suspect a tree on your property may be dead, it's important to have it professionally assessed and removed if necessary. At Ash Rock Tree Service, our local arborists can identify dead trees and safely remove them. Here are four signs that a large tree has died and should be taken down by a professional arborist. No Leaf Growth During the Growing Season One of the most obvious signs of a dead tree is the absence of leaves during the spring and summer months. If your tree remains bare while other trees are full and green, it’s likely no longer alive. Even evergreen trees that start losing their needles in large amounts may be in serious decline. A tree without leaf growth during the growing season should be professionally evaluated as soon as possible. Large Dead Branches in the Canopy If you notice many large dead limbs in the upper sections of the tree, it could be a sign that the tree has died or is well on its way. Dead branches become brittle and break easily, especially in wind or storms. These falling limbs can pose a major hazard to people, vehicles, and buildings nearby. A tree with extensive deadwood, especially in the upper canopy, is a likely candidate for removal. Peeling or Missing Bark The bark on a healthy tree acts like a protective skin. When bark starts peeling off in large sections or falls away entirely, it’s a strong indication that the tree is no longer thriving. If the trunk appears dry, cracked, or hollow beneath missing bark, the tree has likely stopped drawing nutrients and water and may already be dead. A tree in this condition can quickly become structurally unsound. Fungus Growing Around the Base Fungal growth at the base of a tree can signal internal rot. Once decay sets in at the trunk or root level, the tree loses structural integrity and becomes much more likely to fall. While not all fungus automatically means death, it’s often a sign that the tree is potentially in serious decline and should be evaluated for removal. Tree Removal in Salem, OR For expert tree removal in Salem, OR and the surrounding area, contact Ash Rock Tree Service at  503-447-6231  . Feel free to give us a call to request an estimate!

While a tree stump might seem harmless, it can cause several problems if left standing. Eliminating stumps after tree removal is an important step in maintaining a healthy, attractive, and functional outdoor space. At Ash Rock Tree Service , our local arborists provide expert stump grinding and removal in the greater Salem, OR area. Here are five reasons to take care of leftover stumps as soon as possible. They Attract Pests Dead tree stumps are a magnet for pests, especially insects like termites and carpenter ants. As the wood decays, it becomes an ideal habitat for these unwanted guests. Over time, these pests can spread to nearby trees or even migrate into your home, causing further damage. Removing the stump eliminates this potential breeding ground and reduces the risk of infestations on your property. They Interfere with Lawn Care A stump in the middle of your yard can make routine lawn maintenance a hassle. It can damage lawnmower blades, limit your ability to trim grass evenly, and make other landscaping tasks more difficult. Over time, this can lead to uneven turf and poor curb appeal. Removing the stump helps restore a smooth, usable lawn surface. They Pose a Tripping Hazard A stump left in your yard can be a serious tripping hazard, particularly for children and anyone who isn’t familiar with your landscape. Whether it's hidden by grass or obscured in low light, a stump increases the risk of injury. This is especially concerning in high-traffic areas of your property. Eliminating the stump helps make your yard safer for everyone who uses it. They Can Lead to Regrowth Even after a tree is cut down, the stump can sometimes sprout new shoots and attempt to regrow. These suckers often grow rapidly and can become difficult to control. By removing the stump entirely, you prevent this unwanted regrowth and keep your landscaping tidier. They Detract from Your Property's Appearance Even if the stump is low to the ground or tucked away, it still detracts from the overall appearance of your landscape. A rotting stump looks neglected, especially when compared to a well-maintained lawn or garden. By eliminating the stump, you improve your property’s visual appeal and boost its curb value. Stump Grinding & Removal in Salem, OR For stump grinding and lot clearing in Salem, OR and the surrounding area, contact Ash Rock Tree Service at  503-447-6231  . Feel free to give us a call to ask for an estimate!

Big trees can become serious hazards if they're structurally compromised. Trees that are prone to falling over without warning can cause major property damage and pose risks to people and pets. It's crucial to recognize the warning signs early and take appropriate action. At Ash Rock Tree Service, our local arborists can identify hazardous trees and remove them as needed. Here are four signs that a tree may be at risk of unexpectedly toppling over. Leaning More Than Usual A slight lean in a tree may not be a cause for concern if it's been that way for years and is growing normally. However, if a tree suddenly develops a new or more pronounced lean, it could indicate an unstable root system or internal decay. A sudden change in posture often means the tree is struggling to anchor itself, especially if the soil around the base looks disturbed or cracked. Trees that lean dramatically, especially after storms or heavy rains, should be evaluated by a professional immediately. Cracked or Uplifted Soil Around the Base The roots are what hold a tree upright, and when they begin to fail, one of the warning signs is a change in the soil around the trunk. If the ground appears cracked or uneven, it could mean that the tree is shifting. This is especially dangerous after prolonged rainfall, which can soften the soil and make it easier for roots to become unanchored. Decay or Hollowing in the Trunk Rotting or hollow areas in the trunk are a red flag for structural weakness. Trees with visible cavities and/or significant fungal growth in the trunk may not be able to support their own weight. While some hollow trees can remain standing for years, they are significantly more prone to falling unexpectedly, especially under the stress of high winds. A tree with large sections of decay should always be examined by an experienced arborist. Visible Root Damage Exposed, damaged, or decaying roots can drastically reduce a tree’s ability to remain upright. Construction and soil compaction can harm roots. Trees with significant root damage are much more likely to fall over during storms or high winds. If major roots are visible and show signs of damage or decay, the tree's stability could be seriously compromised. Tree Removal in Salem, OR For expert tree removal in Salem, OR and the surrounding area, contact Ash Rock Tree Service at  503-447-6231  . Feel free to give us a call to ask for an estimate!

As wildfires become more common and intense across the Pacific Northwest, protecting your property is more important than ever. One of the most effective strategies for reducing wildfire risk around homes and buildings is ignition zoning. At Ash Rock Tree Service, we often recommend ignition zoning as part of a larger wildfire mitigation plan for homeowners in and around Salem, OR. Understanding Ignition Zoning Ignition zoning is a method of organizing your landscape into zones based on the distance from your home or other structures. Each zone has specific recommendations for vegetation management and material use to reduce the chances of wildfire spreading to your home. The goal is to create a series of defensible spaces that slow down or stop a fire before it reaches your house. Zone 0: The Immediate Zone This zone extends zero to five feet from your home, including decks, porches, and outbuildings. This area should be kept free of anything flammable. That means no dry leaves, firewood piles, or mulch near the foundation. Ideally, hardscaping like gravel, stone, or concrete should be used in this area. Gutters should be kept clean, and roofs should be made of fire-resistant materials. Zone 1: The Intermediate Zone Zone 1 covers the area from five to 30 feet from your home. This is where fire-resistant landscaping becomes critical. Tree limbs should be trimmed at least 10 feet from the ground and kept away from structures. Flammable shrubs should be replaced with fire-resistant plants. Spacing between plants and proper maintenance can slow the spread of flames and reduce heat. Zone 2: The Extended Zone This area stretches 30 to 100 feet out from buildings and is your opportunity to further reduce fuel buildup. In this zone, dead trees, dense brush, and ladder fuels (vegetation that allows fire to climb from the ground into tree canopies) should be removed. Trees can remain but should be spaced appropriately, with undergrowth cleared regularly. Why It Matters in Salem, OR Salem and the surrounding areas are prone to wildfire threats, especially during dry, windy summers. Ignition zoning gives homeowners a proactive way to protect their homes and support community-wide fire resistance. When combined with other practices like tree thinning, proper pruning, and regular maintenance, ignition zoning can significantly improve a property’s chances of surviving a wildfire. Let Ash Rock Tree Service Help At Ash Rock Tree Service, we help Salem-area homeowners apply ignition zoning principles to their properties. Whether it’s removing hazardous trees or maintaining defensible space, we’re here to help you stay safe and prepared. Contact us today at  503-447-6231  to schedule a wildfire risk assessment and expert tree care you can trust.