It’s easy to take the trees on your property for granted until something goes wrong. A cracked limb after a storm, branches tangled in power lines, or a tree that’s suddenly looking overgrown or unhealthy can quickly turn into a safety concern.

At Unlimited Tree Service, we believe the best tree care is proactive. Regular maintenance and early intervention can prevent many common problems before they become expensive or dangerous. Here are the three most common tree issues we see across Central Iowa, and what you should do if they show up on your property.

1. A Tree Is Leaning, Cracked or Has Already Fallen

Severe Iowa storms with high winds, lightning, ice or heavy snow can put immense stress on trees. While broken limbs are the most obvious sign of damage, storms can also weaken a tree’s internal structure or root system making it unsafe even if it’s still standing.

Not all falling trees are storm-related. Trees may also fail due to:

• Poor soil conditions or drainage

• Root rot or decay

• Old age or internal hollowing

• Disease or pest damage

If a tree is leaning, showing visible cracks or dropping large limbs, it’s a sign that something isn’t right. Trees that have already fallen still require professional removal to ensure they’re handled safely and don’t cause further damage.

What to do:
Call a professional tree service as soon as you notice a potential hazard. Early action can prevent damage to your home, vehicles, fences and neighboring properties.

2. Tree Branches Touching or Growing Into Power Lines

Trees near power lines aren’t just an inconvenience. They’re a serious safety risk. Branches that touch or grow through electrical lines can spark fires, cause power outages and create dangerous conditions during storms.

This is one situation where DIY tree trimming is never safe. High-voltage lines can energize branches without warning, putting homeowners and neighbors at risk.

Even branches that aren’t touching lines yet can become a problem during wind, ice and snow, leading to outages and emergency situations.

What to do:
Always call a professional tree service with the training, equipment, and experience to work safely around utilities. Proper pruning helps protect your home and keeps service disruptions to a minimum.

3. Overgrown or Unhealthy Trees

Trees that haven’t been pruned regularly can become overgrown, unbalanced and more vulnerable to pests and disease. Dense canopies block sunlight and airflow, creating the perfect environment for insects, fungi and decay to thrive.

Overgrown trees may:

• Look unkept and reduce curb appeal

• Develop weak or crowded branches

• Become more susceptible to storm damage

As a general guideline:

• Young trees benefit from pruning every 2–3 years

• Mature trees should be pruned every 3–5 years

Routine pruning improves structure, promotes healthy growth and helps trees maintain a strong, attractive shape.

What to do:
Schedule regular tree maintenance with a professional who understands proper pruning techniques and long-term tree health.

Why Professional Tree Care Matters

Tree work is inherently dangerous and requires specialized tools, training and experience. Attempting to handle these problems on your own can result in personal injury, property damage, or long-term harm to the tree itself. 

At Unlimited Tree Service, our team provides expert tree trimming, tree removal, storm response and ongoing tree care throughout Central Iowa. Our approach is rooted in safety, plant health and honest recommendations so you can feel confident about the care your trees receive. You can find more about the benefits of working with a tree care expert here. 

A Friendly Reminder: Small Problems Don’t Stay Small

Ignoring early warning signs often leads to bigger, more expensive issues down the road. Addressing common tree problems early helps protect your property, preserve your landscape and keep your trees healthy for years to come. 

Call Unlimited Tree Service — We’re Here to Help

If you’re noticing any of these common tree problems or simply want a professional opinion, Unlimited Tree Service is ready to help. Our experienced team will evaluate your trees, explain what’s going on and recommend the right solution for your property.

Call Unlimited Tree Service today (515-985-5057) or visit www.unlimitedtreeiowa.com to schedule a consultation.
Let’s keep your trees safe, healthy and thriving—season after season.