It’s not always easy to know when a tree on your property has crossed the line from “a little concerning” to “this needs to come down.” Trees age quietly, hide internal problems well, and sometimes look healthier than they are.
But winter in Kansas City has a way of revealing the truth.
Cold temperatures, ice, wet snow, and fast-moving windstorms expose weaknesses that weren’t obvious in summer. And if a tree is already struggling, winter is often the season when it becomes clear that removal may be the safest option.
The good news?
Winter is also the BEST and safest time of year to remove a tree.
Here’s how to know when it’s time and why winter is the right season to act.
1. The Tree Has a New or Worsening Lean
A tree with a natural lean isn’t necessarily a problem.
But if you notice a new lean or a sudden shift in posture, that’s a red flag.
Root issues often become more obvious in winter because:
-
Soil loosens and refreezes
-
Strong winds push weakened trees
-
Freeze–thaw cycles disrupt root stability
If the tree tilts toward your home, driveway, power lines, or a neighbor’s property, it should be evaluated right away.
2. There Are Large Dead Limbs High in the Canopy
Dead limbs are unpredictable, especially in winter.
They break easily under the weight of snow or ice and often fall without warning.
Signs include:
-
Gray, brittle, or hollow branches
-
Bark peeling away
-
Limbs that never leafed out last spring
If a large dead limb sits over a roof, walkway, or parking area, removal may be the safest solution.
3. You See Mushrooms, Soft Wood, or Hollow Spots
Decay is one of the biggest reasons trees fail during Kansas City winter storms.
Watch for:
-
Mushrooms or fungal growth at the base
-
Soft or spongy wood
-
Large cavities in the trunk
-
Bark falling off in sheets
Internal decay often isn’t visible until winter exposes structural weaknesses.
A hollow tree may appear stable, until ice or wind pushes it past its limit.
4. The Trunk Has Cracks, Splits, or Deep Bark Separation
Winter is hard on trees that already have structural issues.
Freeze–thaw cycles make cracks worse, and cold wood becomes brittle.
If your tree has:
-
A vertical crack down the trunk
-
A major split between large limbs
-
Bark separating from the wood beneath
…it may not withstand late-winter storms, which are often the worst of the season.
5. The Tree Was Damaged in Previous Storms
Old storm damage has a way of coming back in winter.
Branches that were partially cracked, split, or weakened will often fail mid-season, especially after the first heavy ice event.
If your tree already struggled last year, winter may be the time to address it before it causes another round of damage.
Why Winter Is the Best Time for Tree Removals in Kansas City
Homeowners are often surprised to learn that winter is the ideal removal season. Here’s why:
✔ Frozen ground protects your yard
Equipment doesn’t sink or rut your lawn.
✔ Trees are lighter without leaves
This makes removals safer and more efficient.
✔ Visibility is better
With no leaves, arbor consultants can see the tree’s structure clearly.
✔ Less risk of spreading disease
Most pests and pathogens are inactive in winter.
✔ Storm risk is highest now
Taking action before the next ice event prevents expensive emergency removals later.
If a tree needs to come down, winter is the time to do it.
When in Doubt, Let an Arbor Consultant Evaluate It
Not every concerning tree needs to be removed, but every concerning tree should be evaluated.
A trained arbor consultant can tell you whether:
-
The tree can be saved
-
It needs structural pruning
-
It poses a safety risk
-
Removal is the only safe option
With over 26 years of experience caring for Kansas City trees, Cartwright Tree Care is here to help you make the right call for your home and property.
If you’re unsure whether a tree should come down this winter, we’re happy to take a look.