Denver Tree Trimming Service: Why You Shouldn’t Leave a Dead Cottonwood Tree in Your Yard


Cottonwood trees are native to Colorado, and most people consider them one of the state’s most iconic trees. These large beauties give owners plenty of shade from the bright Front Range sunshine, but they also come with some issues that require a Denver tree trimming service. Cottonwood branches are susceptible to breakage—especially during infamous spring snowstorms that yield a lot of heavy, wet precipitation—and they have intricate root systems that grow aggressively, often causing damage to sidewalks or buildings.
Most cottonwood trees have a short lifespan of just 50 years or so because they grow so quickly. If you have an old cottonwood tree in your yard that has died, removing it can seem like a daunting task. The temptation to simply leave it in place is a very real one, but the truth is that removing these dead trees is important.

(Interested in learning more about these fast-growing Colorado trees? You can read more about cottonwood trees here.)
Here’s why you shouldn’t leave a dead cottonwood tree—or any dead tree for that matter—in your yard. 

#1—A Dead Tree Can Topple Over
When it’s alive, a cottonwood tree is a strong structure, but that all changes when it’s dead. A dead tree can fall, and there is no way to predict when or how it will happen. It could fall onto a structure onto your property, causing damage. If your tree is near the driveway or road, it could fall onto a car. Although the chances of the tree falling onto a person is minimal, the possibility exists. If your dead cottonwood tree falls onto a neighbor’s property, you will be liable for any damages. 

#2—A Dead Tree Puts Your Healthy Trees at Risk
Depending on the reason for your cottonwood’s demise, it could have an impact on your other trees. If the tree was diseased, this is likely going to be contagious. A dead tree can also develop mold and mildew, which can be passed along to your other trees and plants.

#3—A Dead Tree Attracts Bugs and Vermin
A dead tree is a great place for pests to hang out. Bugs such as termites are commonplace. But a dead tree can also attract rodents such as rats, which no one wants anywhere near their property. If there are rats in your dead tree and they get hungry, they could begin to invade your home.

#4—A Dead Tree Is Ugly
If you are like most homeowners, you take pride in your yard. A dead tree in the middle of your meticulous landscaping does nothing to improve your property value—or that of your neighbors. If you have a homeowner’s association, you might even face fines for leaving a dead tree in your yard.

Now that you know that leaving a dead cottonwood tree on your property is a bad idea, you should reach out to your Denver tree trimming company, Root Tree Service. Our experts are happy to provide you with a quote for tree removal—or for any other tree trimming needs your landscape might require. Our family-owned and -operated business provides quality service and care for customers all over the metro Denver area. Call today!
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