Many people think of storms, lightning, and disease when they imagine what can hurt a tree, but several other less obvious threats can quietly cause serious harm. From well-meaning yard work to local wildlife, trees face challenges you might not expect. The following guide explores six surprising things that can damage a tree and result in costly removal or replacement.

1. Lawn Equipment

While trimming the grass around a tree’s base might seem like routine yard work, frequent contact with equipment can scrape or cut into a tree’s bark. This bark is like the tree’s protective skin, and once it’s damaged, the tree becomes vulnerable to pests, fungi, and disease. In Brevard County’s warm, humid climate, those invaders can quickly take hold.

Over time, even small cuts can interrupt the flow of water and nutrients inside the tree, weakening it from the inside out. Trees under this kind of stress often begin to show signs of decline, including dieback in the canopy and slowed growth.

One easy solution is to install a mulch ring around the tree’s base. A few inches of mulch create a buffer between your tree and lawn equipment. Try not to pile mulch directly against the trunk. Instead, keep a small gap to avoid rot.

2. Soil Compaction

The roots of a tree need room to breathe. Roots take in oxygen through the soil, and when the soil becomes compacted, air and water can’t circulate properly. This development is a common issue in high-traffic areas of your yard, such as places where kids play, pets roam, or cars park.

Heavy foot traffic and machinery can press the soil so tightly that tree roots become starved for nutrients. In some cases, this problem leads to shallow root growth, which makes trees less stable during storms. Other times, you might notice leaves yellowing, early leaf dropping, or stunted growth. These are all signs your tree isn’t getting what it needs underground.

To prevent compaction, limit foot traffic and vehicular parking around tree bases. You can also aerate the soil periodically, especially in clay-heavy areas common in parts of Brevard County. If you’re planting new trees, choose locations away from well-worn paths to give your trees the best chance to thrive.

3. Construction and Renovation Projects

Whether adding a pool, updating your driveway, or building a new addition, home improvement projects can stress nearby trees more than most people realize. Even if you avoid cutting roots outright, the vibrations from heavy machinery and changes to soil grade or drainage patterns can disrupt a tree’s ecosystem.

Construction zones often bring soil compaction, damage to bark and branches, and root injury. Roots extend far beyond the visible canopy of a tree—often two to three times farther. So, even work that appears distant can harm the root system.

Before construction begins, plan ahead to protect your trees. Use fencing to mark off a “root protection zone” that covers the area beneath the canopy. Communicate with contractors about keeping equipment and supplies outside this boundary. If your project affects drainage, ensure water doesn’t pool around the trunk or run off too quickly.

4. Overwatering or Poor Drainage

Florida’s sandy soil usually provides decent drainage, but in low-lying areas or spots with heavy irrigation, water can become a problem. Most trees prefer consistent moisture, but too much water creates conditions that lead to root rot, fungal growth, and suffocation of the root system.

This issue usually arises when homeowners water their lawns and trees on the same schedule. Trees don’t always need the same watering frequency as grass, and mature trees can typically survive just fine on rainfall, especially during Brevard County’s wet summer months.

Signs of overwatering include yellowing leaves, a musty smell near the trunk, and soft or blackened roots if exposed. Newly planted trees need more regular watering, but for established trees, less is often more.

Ensure your landscape allows for proper drainage by grading the yard away from tree bases and avoiding the use of impervious materials that trap water. If your property sits in a flood-prone area, consider speaking with a tree care professional about tree species that are more tolerant of wet conditions.

5. Animals and Insects

Sometimes, the animals we love watching from the porch can cause problems for trees. For example, squirrels may strip bark or chew branches. Woodpeckers can drill into trunks in search of insects. Deer may rub against young trees, damaging bark. Even household pets that dig at roots or chew bark can do harm.

Insects like borers, aphids, and scale are even more destructive. These tiny pests often go unnoticed until the tree starts showing signs of decline. Florida’s warm climate allows for year-round insect activity, which means trees must constantly fend off unwanted guests.

To protect your trees, inspect them regularly. Look for holes in the bark, sawdust around the base, or signs of chewing or gnawing. Use protective wraps on young trees to keep deer and pets from stripping bark. If you suspect an insect infestation, call a licensed arborist or tree care specialist for help. Early intervention can mean the difference between saving a tree and losing it.

6. Improper Pruning

Good pruning keeps trees healthy, safe, and attractive, but bad pruning can cause real damage. Over-pruning, topping, and cutting large limbs without regard for structure can leave trees vulnerable to disease, sunburn, or uneven growth.

It’s especially important to time your pruning with the local climate. For instance, pruning in late summer in Brevard County can stimulate new growth just before hurricane season or a rare cold snap, leaving the tree exposed to stress. Meanwhile, removing too much foliage reduces the tree’s ability to photosynthesize and store energy.

Avoid DIY pruning unless you’re confident in your skills and understanding of tree biology. Cutting the wrong branch or using dirty tools can introduce disease and weaken the tree. Always hire a certified arborist for large or mature trees. A professional will know how to shape the tree correctly, improve airflow, and remove dead or dangerous limbs without hurting the structure.

Keep Your Trees Healthy and Beautiful

Trees are strong, but they aren’t invincible. From heavy foot traffic and misguided landscaping efforts to pests and construction, the six surprising things that can damage a tree are often hiding in plain sight. By learning what to watch for and taking proactive steps, you can keep your trees healthy and beautiful for many years.

If one of your trees has suffered too much damage and poses a risk, dangerous tree removal can help protect your home and family. Consult a local expert like Kevin’s Tree Service before making that decision. We’ll treat your trees with care and help you enjoy your precious landscape investment.