What to Do About a Leaning Tree

Many trees naturally grow at an angle. A lean becomes more concerning when it is new, increasing, accompanied by root movement, or paired with soil cracking, trunk damage, or a recent storm event.

Old lean versus new lean

A long-standing lean with adaptive growth is different from a tree that shifted after saturated soil, wind, excavation, or root damage.

Look at the base from a safe distance

Lifted soil, exposed roots, fresh cracks, or a root plate that appears to have rotated can indicate movement.

Consider the fall zone

The same lean deserves more urgency if a home, road, utility line, playground, or parking area is within reach.

Do not try to pull it straight

Large trees store enormous forces. Cables, vehicles, and improvised cutting can create a severe hazard. Professional evaluation is the safer route when stability is in question.