Recognizing Hazardous Trees Before Storm Season
July 2, 2025

July 2, 2025

Tree Safety Services in Tampa Bay, Hillsborough & Eastern Pasco Counties

At Mid Florida Tree Service, we understand how quickly Florida’s weather can turn dangerous. With hurricane season and summer storms arriving every year, one of the smartest things homeowners and property managers can do is proactively identify hazardous trees before the winds start howling.
Our certified arborists have been serving Hillsborough and Pasco counties for over four decades, and we’ve seen the damage that neglected trees can cause—broken limbs through roofs, downed trees blocking driveways, and dangerous power line entanglements. Fortunately, many of these issues can be prevented with a proper tree inspection and timely maintenance.

Warning Signs That a Tree May Be Hazardous


Not every dangerous tree looks like it’s about to fall. Some warning signs can be subtle but serious:
  • Leaning Trees: A tree that’s tilting more than usual may have compromised roots or soil erosion at its base.
  • Dead or Hanging Limbs: Branches that are already dead or dying are more likely to break during high winds.
  • Cracks or Splits in the Trunk: These are structural red flags that may indicate internal decay or previous storm damage.
  • Fungal Growth at the Base: Fungi, such as mushrooms or bracket fungus, may point to root rot or decay within the trunk.
  • Heaving Soil Around the Roots: Soil that appears lifted around a tree’s base may suggest shifting or failing roots.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to contact a professional tree service company like ours for a risk assessment.

Why Early Tree Inspections Matter

Florida's storm season doesn't give much warning. Trees that appear stable in calm weather can quickly become a serious threat once the winds pick up. By scheduling a pre-season tree inspection, you gain peace of mind and reduce the likelihood of:
  • Emergency tree removal
  • Property damage from falling limbs or uprooted trunks
  • Injuries to family members, visitors, or neighbors
  • Costly insurance claims or disputes

At Mid Florida Tree Service, we use professional equipment and years of expertise to assess your trees and recommend pruning, cabling, or removal only when necessary. 

Trust a Certified Arborist

Our team includes Certified Arborists who understand Florida’s trees—from native Live Oaks and Cabbage Palms to ornamental imports. We follow industry best practices to keep your trees healthy, balanced, and safe. If your city or HOA requires documentation for protected trees, we can provide the proper reports and permits, too.

Schedule a Storm Safety Inspection Today

If you live in Thonotosassa, Tampa, Seffner, Wesley Chapel, or anywhere in Hillsborough or eastern Pasco County, give Mid Florida Tree Service a call at 813-588-0315 . We’ll help you spot trouble before the storm hits—and we’ll work with you to make sure your trees are an asset, not a liability.

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Trees add beauty, shade, and value to properties throughout Polk County. From Lakeland to Bartow to Mulberry, mature oaks, pines, and palms are a major part of the landscape. However, Florida’s climate creates unique challenges that can affect tree health if problems are not identified early. Understanding common tree issues in Polk County helps homeowners protect their investment and avoid costly removals. Storm Damage and Structural Weakness High winds and heavy rain are common throughout Polk County. Even if a tree survives a storm, hidden structural damage may remain. Common storm related issues include: Cracked or split trunks. Limbs with weak attachment points. Leaning trees due to root movement. Canopy imbalance after major limb loss. Internal decay caused by storm wounds. Early evaluation can determine whether corrective pruning can restore stability or if removal is necessary. Soil Compaction and Root Stress Many Polk County yards experience compacted soil due to foot traffic, construction, or heavy equipment. Compacted soil restricts oxygen flow to roots and limits water absorption. Signs of root stress include: Sparse canopy growth. Smaller than normal leaves. Premature leaf drop. Slow overall growth. Increased susceptibility to pests and disease. Relieving soil compaction and improving root conditions often restores tree vitality. Pest and Disease Issues Florida’s warm climate supports a wide range of pests and fungal diseases. Oaks, pines, and palms are especially vulnerable if already stressed. Common problems in Polk County include: Fungal growth at the base of trees. Leaf discoloration or spotting. Bark separation or oozing sap. Palm nutrient deficiencies. Insect activity in weakened wood. Our ISA Certified Arborists evaluate symptoms carefully before recommending treatment or removal. Improper Pruning Improper trimming can cause long term structural problems. Over pruning, topping, or removing healthy limbs weakens the tree and increases storm risk. We frequently see: Excessive canopy thinning. Large flush cuts that do not heal properly. Unbalanced canopy weight. Stress from removing too many green fronds on palms. Corrective pruning helps restore structure and reduce future risk. Root Damage From Construction Driveways, patios, and landscaping projects can damage roots without obvious signs at first. In Polk County neighborhoods with mature trees, root disturbance is a common cause of decline. Warning signs may include: Gradual thinning of the canopy. Increased branch drop. Soil settling near the base of the tree. Delayed decline months after construction. Professional evaluation helps determine whether damage can be managed. Proactive Tree Care in Polk County Most serious tree problems begin with subtle warning signs. Regular inspections and routine maintenance reduce the likelihood of emergency removals and storm failures. At Mid-Florida Tree Service, our ISA Certified Arborists evaluate trees carefully and recommend practical solutions that protect your property and landscape. If you are concerned about a tree in Lakeland, Bartow, Mulberry, or anywhere in Polk County, we are ready to help. Call Mid-Florida Tree Service at (813) 588-0315 to schedule a professional tree evaluation in Polk County.
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