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Trunk bends or leans

leaning tree

Trunks that bend are not necessarily weak and ready to fall. The tree in the right photo has a huge bend in it but the tree appears to be sound. On the other hand, a leaning trunk can be concerning, especially if the base of the trunk is leaning because roots are defective or were severed (see trees below).

The tree below-center snapped off at the point where the two main stems joined because it began to lean dramatically. Treatment: Small trees (less than about 4 inches trunk diameter) that are leaning can be staked in the upright position (See: details). Larger trees with bends or leans that are concerning can be reduced on the side of the lean or the tree can be removed from the site. Evaluation by a professional arborist is the best way to deal with this situation. Click here for more on bends and leans.

broken stem
broken stem

broken roots
broken roots
failed roots
failed roots
cut roots
cut roots
soft soil
soft soil
circling roots
circling roots