Understanding What Your Trees Need Before You Act

Professional arborist consultation and tree evaluation services in Northwest Louisiana

You may have noticed a tree losing leaves earlier than usual, leaning more than it used to, or developing cracks in the trunk that were not there before. In Shreveport, storms and humidity create conditions where trees develop decay, pest damage, or structural weaknesses that are not always obvious from the ground. Rushing's Tree Care LLC provides arborist consultations to evaluate tree health, identify risks, and help you decide whether a tree should be preserved, pruned, or removed.

An arborist consultation involves a trained professional inspecting the tree for signs of disease, decay, pest activity, and structural problems. This includes checking the trunk, limbs, root zone, and canopy for issues like cavities, dead wood, fungal growth, or poor attachment points. The arborist also considers the location of the tree, nearby structures, and soil conditions. After the evaluation, you receive a clear explanation of what is happening with the tree and what options are available based on its condition.

If you are unsure whether a tree on your Shreveport property is healthy or safe, schedule an arborist consultation to get an expert assessment before making any decisions.

What an Arborist Looks for During an Evaluation

When an arborist visits your property in Shreveport, they begin by examining the tree from the base up. They look for cracks, hollows, fungal growth, and areas where bark is missing or peeling. The root zone is checked for soil compaction, recent construction damage, or signs of root rot. Limbs are inspected for weak attachments, dead wood, and imbalance.

After the evaluation, you will know whether the tree is healthy, declining, or hazardous. If the tree can be saved, the arborist will explain what maintenance or treatment is needed. If the tree is too far gone or poses a risk, removal will be recommended with reasoning based on what was observed. You will also receive guidance on timing, especially if the tree is near a structure or power line.

This service does not include tree removal, pruning, or treatment. It is an assessment only, designed to give you the information you need to make an informed decision. Follow-up work can be scheduled separately based on the findings.

People usually ask these questions during or after the visit

Homeowners scheduling an arborist consultation often want to know what will be checked, how long the evaluation takes, and whether the tree can be saved or needs to come down.

What does an arborist check during a tree evaluation?
The arborist examines the trunk, limbs, root zone, and canopy for signs of decay, disease, pest damage, or structural weakness. They also consider the tree's location and any risks it may pose to nearby structures.
How long does a tree evaluation take?
Most evaluations take between 20 and 45 minutes depending on the size of the tree and the number of issues being assessed. You will receive a verbal summary on site and can ask questions during the visit.
Can you tell if a tree is going to fall?
An arborist can identify structural problems that increase the likelihood of failure, such as heavy lean, root damage, or hollow trunks. While no one can predict exactly when a tree will fall, the evaluation helps you understand the level of risk.
Will you recommend removal or can the tree be saved?
It depends on the condition of the tree. If the tree is healthy but needs pruning or treatment, that will be recommended. If the tree is dying or poses a safety hazard, removal is typically the best option.
Do you evaluate trees before construction or landscaping projects?
Yes, arborist consultations are commonly requested before building, grading, or installing utilities. The evaluation helps determine which trees can stay and which may be affected by the work.

If you are unsure about the health or safety of a tree on your Shreveport property, Rushing's Tree Care LLC can provide a thorough evaluation and clear recommendations based on what is found. Reach out to schedule a consultation and get the guidance you need.