Warning Signs that a Tree Is at an Elevated Risk of Toppling Over
Walter Soto’s Tree Service • September 12, 2025
When big trees become unstable, they can pose a serious hazard. A tree that is at risk of falling can cause extensive damage to homes, vehicles, and power lines, as well as endanger the safety of people nearby. Identifying warning signs early gives you the chance to take action before disaster strikes. At Walter Soto’s Tree Service, we provide hazardous tree removal in the greater Mount Kisco, NY area. Here are five common signs that a tree may be at an elevated risk of toppling over.
Significant Leaning
While some trees naturally grow at a slight angle, a tree that has recently begun leaning more than usual is a red flag. Sudden or worsening lean often indicates instability in the root system or weakening of the trunk. If the lean is pronounced and continues to worsen, the tree could fall without warning, especially during strong winds or storms.
Cracked or Decaying Trunk
The trunk is the main support system for a tree, and any compromise in its strength can increase the risk of collapse. Large cracks, cavities, or areas of decay weaken the trunk’s structural integrity. Fungal growth or peeling bark may also indicate that rot is setting in. When the trunk loses its ability to support the tree’s weight, the likelihood of toppling rises significantly.
Root Damage or Uplift
A healthy root system is essential for keeping a tree anchored to the ground. If you notice soil lifting at the base of the tree or roots breaking through the surface, it could be a sign that the tree is becoming unstable. Construction work, soil erosion, or disease can also damage roots, making them less effective at holding the tree upright. Without strong roots, even a large tree can come down unexpectedly.
Recent Storm Damage
High winds, heavy snow, or lightning strikes can leave a tree structurally compromised. Split trunks or cracks along major limbs should be taken seriously, even if the tree appears to still be standing strong. Damage from severe weather often accelerates decline, and without timely intervention, the tree may not withstand the next storm.
Professional Tree Removal in Mount Kisco, NY
When you need
tree removal in Mount Kisco and the surrounding area, contact Walter Soto’s Tree Service at
914-252-8208. Feel free to give us a call to request a tree services estimate in Westchester County!
Walter Soto’s Tree Service & Landscaping Inc. Blog
At Walter Soto’s Tree Service & Landscaping, we strive to earn our customers’ complete satisfaction by consistently doing top-quality work at fair rates. Whether you need light pruning, big tree removal, or lot clearing, our team will work diligently to complete the job to the highest standards. And we appreciate it when our customers offer feedback about their experiences with us. Here’s a look at some of our recent customer reviews. “I had a tree taken down and a tree pruned today. The guys did an excellent job. We are very happy with their work!! I would definitely recommend them!!” — Marisa V. “These guys are the real deal. They removed a huge tree from my backyard without damaging anything. Super careful, very friendly, and they even cleaned up better than I expected. Would absolutely call them again.” — Alvin P. “Our HOA was thrilled with their work around our complex. Trees were trimmed, stumps removed, and every area left immaculate. Can’t recommend them enough for larger jobs.” — Kalesha W. “These folks went above and beyond. They didn’t just remove the tree — they also helped me with stump grinding and even cleaned the driveway. Definitely my go-to from now on for any tree issues.” — Dhitasptian I. “When removing large limbs near my roofline, they carefully ensured no damage occurred. Not even a single shingle was scuffed, which is a testament to their precision and concern for property.” — Cecilia W. “Reasonable pricing, very responsive and updates you often. Hard working responsible team and professional equipment. The job was left very clean. Highly recommend.” — Zane J. “I had an emergency situation when a tree cracked during a midnight storm. Their emergency support immediately eased my worries, arriving fast to remove the hazardous limb.” — Madeline K. “Gave me an estimate of my tree to be removed that was a hazard to my house. The next day he came and removed it. Quick, easy, safe, and clean. Couldn't recommend this company more. Walter is a stand-up gentleman.” — Frank C. Tree & Landscaping Services in Mount Kisco, NY When you need an arborist in Mount Kisco and the surrounding area, contact Walter Soto’s Tree Service at 914-252-8208 . Our team also specializes in land clearing and stump grinding in Mount Kisco. Feel free to give us a call to arrange a tree services estimate in Westchester County!
Tree pruning is more than just cutting off branches—it’s a critical part of maintaining the health, appearance, and safety of your trees. While it might seem like a task you can handle yourself, improper pruning can actually do more harm than good. Hiring a professional arborist ensures that the job is done correctly and safely, with long-term benefits for your landscape. At Walter Soto’s Tree Service, we provide professional tree pruning in the greater Mount Kisco, NY area. Here are four important reasons to entrust tree pruning to an experienced arborist. Promotes Healthy Growth A professional arborist knows exactly how and where to make cuts to encourage strong, healthy growth. They remove dead, diseased, or overcrowded branches that can hinder a tree’s development or make it more vulnerable to pests. Proper pruning techniques help trees grow in a balanced structure that supports long-term stability and vitality. Enhances Tree Safety Dead or weakened limbs can pose a serious risk, especially during storms or high winds. These branches are more likely to break and fall, potentially causing injury or property damage. An arborist can identify and safely remove hazardous branches before they become a problem. Their training also helps them assess structural weaknesses that may not be visible to the untrained eye. Improves Aesthetic Appeal Well-pruned trees look healthier, more vibrant, and contribute positively to your property’s curb appeal. Arborists use selective trimming techniques to shape trees in ways that highlight their natural form while improving overall symmetry. This professional touch ensures your trees look beautiful while still supporting their long-term health. Prevents the Spread of Disease Diseased branches can infect the rest of the tree—or even nearby trees—if not handled properly. A professional arborist can recognize early signs of disease and prune affected limbs in a way that minimizes the spread of pathogens. They also apply correct pruning methods that reduce the risk of introducing new diseases during the process. Professional Tree Pruning in Mount Kisco, NY When you need an arborist in Mount Kisco and the surrounding area, contact Walter Soto’s Tree Service at 914-252-8208 . Our team also specializes in land clearing and stump grinding in Mount Kisco. Feel free to give us a call to request a tree services estimate in Westchester County!
If you’ve got a Norway maple growing in your yard, you’ve probably admired its wide canopy and dense shade in the summer. But while it’s a popular choice for suburban landscapes, this tree benefits from regular pruning, and skipping it can lead to bigger issues over time. When you need pruning services in Mount Kisco or throughout Westchester County, contact Walter Soto’s Tree Service . Why Pruning Matters Norway maples grow fast, often reaching heights of 40 to 50 feet. Their dense growth can create crowded branches and poor air circulation, which makes them more vulnerable to pests, disease, and storm damage. Regular pruning helps maintain the tree’s health by thinning out excess branches, improving airflow, and allowing sunlight to reach lower limbs and nearby plants. Another reason to prune is structural integrity. Young Norway maples are known to form weak branch attachments, especially when multiple trunks or limbs grow close together. Over time, this can lead to splitting or limb breakage. Strategic pruning early on helps shape the tree, reducing the risk of future damage. When and How Often to Prune In Westchester, the best time to prune your Norway maple is late winter or early spring, before new growth starts. This timing helps minimize sap bleeding and reduces stress on the tree. Minor pruning, like removing dead or broken limbs, can be done any time of year. Plan to prune your Norway maple every 2 to 3 years, especially during its early growth stages. Mature trees still benefit from occasional thinning and the removal of problematic limbs. Call a Professional When Needed Because of their height and potential for structural issues, larger Norway maples often require a professional touch. An ISA-certified arborist can identify weak points, use proper techniques, and keep your tree safe and healthy for the long term. Tree Pruning in Mount Kisco, NY While trimming focuses on shaping and controlling size, pruning is a precise technique used to remove dead, diseased, or structurally weak branches. Proper pruning encourages stronger growth patterns, improves airflow, and prevents decay from spreading. Our team of certified arborists assesses trees and applies targeted tree pruning in Mount Kisco to protect trees from future damage while ensuring their continued vitality. Call Walter Soto’s Tree Service at 914-252-8208 to make an appointment.
Trees are an essential part of Westchester County’s natural charm, but even the healthiest trees can fall victim to pesky invaders. Besides being an eyesore, pests can weaken, damage, or even kill your trees if left unchecked. Knowing what to look out for in this region can help you protect your landscape year-round. When you need a tree pest infestation assessment or treatment in Mount Kisco or throughout Westchester County, contact Walter Soto’s Tree Service. Common Tree Pests in Westchester County Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) This metallic green beetle may be tiny, but it packs a devastating punch. The larvae burrow beneath the bark of ash trees, disrupting the flow of water and nutrients. If you notice thinning leaves, bark splitting, or D-shaped exit holes, your tree could be in trouble. Gypsy Moth (Spongy Moth) These moths might look harmless at first, but their caterpillars love to feast on oak, birch, and willow leaves. A heavy infestation can defoliate trees, leaving them stressed and vulnerable to disease. Hemlock Woolly Adelgid Targeting the hemlock trees common in Westchester forests, these tiny pests suck sap from the twigs and needles. Look for white, cotton-like patches on the undersides of branches, which are an early warning sign of infestation. Asian Longhorned Beetle While not as widespread in Westchester as some other pests, this invasive beetle is a serious threat. It targets hardwood trees like maples and elms. Keep an eye out for perfectly round exit holes and sawdust-like material at the base of trees. Scale Insects These sneaky pests cling to branches and bark, often going unnoticed until they cause yellowing leaves or branch dieback. They suck sap and secrete honeydew, which leads to sooty mold growth. Don’t Let Pests Take Root Tree pest problems can escalate quickly, so early detection and treatment are key. Regular inspections by a certified arborist can catch problems before they spread. In many cases, pest management strategies like pruning, natural predators, or targeted treatments can keep your trees thriving and your yard looking great. Tree Pest Infestation Assessments in Mount Kisco, NY Insects and pests can cause significant harm to trees by feeding on leaves, burrowing into bark, or spreading fungal infections. Identifying infestations early allows for effective pest management strategies, such as targeted treatments and preventative care, to protect trees from long-term damage. If you’re concerned about a possible tree insect infestation, call Walter Soto’s Tree Service at 914-252-8208 to schedule an assessment.
So you’ve had a tree removed, but now there’s a stubborn stump sitting like a sore thumb in your yard. That’s where stump grinding comes in; a fast, efficient way to reclaim your landscape without the back-breaking effort of digging it out. If you’ve never gone through the process before, here’s what to expect when a professional rolls up with that noisy (but effective) piece of machinery. When you need stump grinding services in Mount Kisco or throughout Westchester County, contact Walter Soto’s Tree Service. The Prep Work First, the stump grinding crew will assess the area. They'll check for utility lines, rocks, or anything else that might get in the way. If the stump is near fences, walkways, or structures, they'll determine the safest approach to avoid any damage. You won’t need to do much ahead of time besides clear the area of outdoor furniture, toys, or other obstacles. Grinding Begins Once everything's set, the technician will bring in a stump grinder, which is a machine with a large, spinning blade that shreds the stump into small wood chips. The grinder works its way across the stump, chewing it down below ground level. typically about 6 to 12 inches deep. The process might take 15 minutes to over an hour, depending on the stump’s size, wood density, and root system. Dealing With the Aftermath When the grinding is done, what’s left is a mound of wood chips mixed with soil. Most professionals will either leave the chips for you to use as mulch or haul them away if you’d prefer a clean slate. You can fill in the hole with fresh topsoil and plant grass, flowers, or even another tree once the area settles. Why It’s Worth It Stump grinding is far less invasive than digging and doesn't tear up your lawn or damage nearby roots like full stump removal might. It also helps prevent pests like termites or ants from nesting in the old stump and eliminates tripping hazards, which is especially important if you have kids or foot traffic in the yard. Stump Grinding in Mount Kisco, NY Tree stumps are unsightly, take up valuable space, and can become a safety hazard. At Walter Soto’s Tree Service, we offer expert stump grinding in Mount Kisco to eliminate these issues. This stump removal process grinds the stump to below ground level, thus reducing tripping hazards, stopping regrowth, and allowing you to reclaim your yard for landscaping or construction. Whether the stump is brand new from a fallen tree or has been taking up space for years, our Mount Kisco stump removal pros will remove it quickly. Call us at 914-252-8208 for an estimate.
