Stump Grinding vs. Stump Removal: What’s Best for Your Yard?

1) Broken and Damaged Branches Q: What are signs my tree branches are weak or broken? A: Common signs of broken/weak tree branches include limbs that are hanging on by a thread, dead or dying limbs, lack of leaves during the growing season, discolored bark, deep cracks, or branches that can easily snap. Tip: Broken branches are one of the most common signs that your tree needs to pruned. They can often occur after heavy snowfall, rain, or strong winds. Deadwood or dead branches are also a strong indicator that your tree needs to be pruned. Deadwood can be caused by disease, storm damage and pests, as well as natural aging. Removing deadwood prevents limbs from falling onto your property. 2) Overgrown and Crossing Branches Q: What are the signs of overgrown and crossing branches? A: Branches that are overlapping, growing inward, growing into each other, or rubbing together could be overgrown and indicate time for pruning. Tip: If your branches are so dense that you cannot see through them, it's time for pruning. Overly dense branches can cause restricted sunlight, reduced airflow, and are more susceptible to storm damage. 3) Signs of Pest Infestation Q: How can I tell if my tree has a pest infestation? A: Common signs of pests include discolored and thinning leaves, stalled branch growth, tiny holes in bark, or peeling bark. Tip: Trimming your trees is one of the best ways to keep pests away! Trimming allows trees to absorb more sunlight and keep airflow. Since many tree pests thrive in damp, decaying wood, maintaining clean, well-pruned trees helps keep infestations at bay. 4) Visible Water Sprouts Q: What is a water sprout? A: Limbs that grow straight up into the air that are not like normal branches. They can grow several feet in one season and if left unchecked can weaken the canopy and create storm hazards. Tip: Water sprouts can be caused by a variety of factors including heavy rainfall, drought or over pruning. They are fast growing stems that pop up often and the best way to prevent them is by maintaining healthy trees. 5) Storm Damage Q: Should I trim my tree after a storm? A: Yes, after intense weather make sure to inspect your property for any damage and immediately address any concerns. Broken branches can often occur after heavy snowfall, rain or strong winds and in order to minimize property damage and prevent disease spread they need to be taken care of immediately. Tip: You can help prevent storm damage ahead of time by regularly pruning your trees. Removing dead or dying branches will significantly reduce storm damage risk before it occurs.

Pruning oaks at the wrong time invites oak wilt — a disease that kills trees fast. Here's when Illinois homeowners should and shouldn't prune their oaks.

What's the actual difference between tree trimming and pruning — and which one do your trees need? We break it down so you can make the right call.

From trimming and removal to stump grinding and emergency service — everything you need to know about hiring a tree service in the Chicago Northwest suburbs.