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Why Is My Tree Dropping Branches? | Tree Surgeon Yeovil, Sherborne & Dorchester

Is your tree dropping branches? Hawkins Tree & Fencing Services explains common causes and when to contact a professional tree surgeon in Sherborne, Yeovil or Dorchester.

Hawkins Tree Services

10/26/20262 min read

Why Is My Tree Dropping Branches?

If you have noticed branches falling from a tree in your garden, field or outdoor space, it can be worrying. Sometimes, small twigs and minor branches dropping can be part of a tree’s natural cycle. However, larger falling branches may be a sign that the tree is under stress, damaged or in need of professional attention.

At Hawkins Tree & Fencing Services, we provide expert tree surgery across Sherborne, Yeovil, Dorchester and surrounding areas. If your tree is regularly dropping branches, it is worth having it inspected by a professional tree surgeon before the issue becomes more serious.

Common Reasons Trees Drop Branches

There are several reasons why a tree may start shedding branches. Some are natural, while others may indicate a deeper problem.

Deadwood in the Canopy

One of the most common causes is deadwood. Branches can die off due to age, lack of light, disease, drought stress or previous damage. Once dead, these branches become weaker and more likely to fall.

Deadwood removal is a common tree surgery service that helps improve safety and tidy up the appearance of the tree.

Disease or Decay

Disease and decay can weaken branches from the inside, making them more likely to snap or fall. In some cases, the outside of the branch may look fairly normal, while the internal structure has already started to break down.

Signs of decay may include fungal growth, cracks, cavities, peeling bark or soft wood. If you notice any of these signs, it is best to contact a tree surgeon for advice.

Poor Tree Structure

Some trees grow with weak branch unions, crowded stems or unbalanced canopies. Over time, this can make certain branches more vulnerable to failure.

Professional pruning can help reduce excess weight, improve structure and lower the risk of branches falling unexpectedly.

Weather Stress

Although branches can fall at any time of year, changing seasonal conditions can increase the risk. Rain, wind, frost and previous dry spells can all place stress on trees. A branch weakened earlier in the year may not fall immediately, but it can become a problem later on.

This is why regular tree inspections are useful, particularly for mature trees or trees close to buildings, driveways, roads or footpaths.

Should I Be Worried About Falling Branches?

Small twigs falling occasionally are usually not a major concern. However, if your tree is dropping large branches, shedding branches regularly or showing signs of damage, it should be checked by a professional.

You should seek advice if:

Large branches have fallen without obvious cause
Branches are hanging loose in the canopy
The tree has visible cracks or cavities
There is fungal growth near the base or trunk
The tree is close to your home, driveway or public access
The canopy looks thin, uneven or unhealthy

A professional tree surgeon can assess whether the tree needs pruning, deadwood removal, crown reduction or, in more serious cases, removal.

Local Tree Surgery Across Sherborne, Yeovil and Dorchester

Hawkins Tree & Fencing Services provides reliable tree care for domestic, commercial and rural customers across Sherborne, Yeovil, Dorchester and nearby areas. Our team can inspect problem trees, remove unsafe branches and recommend the most suitable work to protect both the tree and surrounding property.

Contact Hawkins Tree & Fencing Services

If your tree is dropping branches or you are concerned about its condition, contact Hawkins Tree & Fencing Services today. We offer professional tree inspections, pruning, deadwood removal and tree surgery across Sherborne, Yeovil, Dorchester and the surrounding areas. Get in touch to arrange a free site visit and quotation.