We have had quite a few emergency calls lately from broken tree branches falling on properties lately.

Reasons for this?

Its spring time, well summer now, however we did have a late start to spring this year. Yes, the extra weight an branches as new leaves, seeds and flowers grow can increase the load on branches by 30% on evergreen trees and up to 100% on deciduous trees.This new heavy load combined with changes in the trees sap flow and transpiration of water (see blog on Summer branch drop 5 March 2011) can cause a branch to fail.

Remedy?

Some minor reduction tree pruning to reduce end weight of branches should be all that is required. Also have your tree surgeon inspect the branches for splits, cracks or other structural faults as your trees come into the growing season.
Please have your tree assessed by a qualified Arborist, not just a tree lopper.