Weather extremes in Northwest Georgia are causing some problems for area trees, according to Terry Paige, the city of Rome’s arborist.

Severe drought in the state followed by the drenching rainfall have created an environment where some trees’ root systems have weakened, making them more susceptible to problems and pests.

“What we’ve had is four or five years of below-average rainfall, and that affects a tree’s root system,” Paige explained. “That diminishes the amount of and depth of roots that are under a tree.

“Then, when we get a lot of rain like we’ve seen this year, that softens the ground, especially the clay-based soil we see around here,” he added. “The ground gets saturated, there is more mud, and there is not as much strength in the ground. Add a tree’s reduced root system, and that can be a bad situation.”

Paige said that scenario has led to some trees toppling over. He said that the city of Rome has had to take down or remove more than 160 trees so far this year, compared to around 200 trees the last two years combined.

And those are just trees on municipal land or near rights of way — not including those property owners have removed.

He said the winter months are when many people should check to see the health of their trees to see if they need treatment, trimming or removal before next spring, when storms with heavy winds can pose a problem.

Another problem that can compound unhealthy trees is the amount of oxygen in the soil. Paige said that too much water from heavy rains can prevent roots from absorbing the necessary amount of oxygen from the soil, leading to weaker roots.

“If it’s a choice between the two, trees can actually withstand having too little water better than too much water,” he said. “It seems that weather-wise, we’ve gone from one extreme to the other. What we’d love to see is a normal, average rainfall.”

Paige said that if a property owner is considering taking down a tree, they should consult with a licensed arborist first to see if that is a necessary step.

“People can call our office with questions about trees, and I would suggest before taking a tree down, call an expert to make sure it’s the best step,” Paige said. “The International Society of Arboriculture is the standard of tree care, so look for that affiliation in a tree care company.”

Paige said that sometimes taking down a tree can be the best course of action, but people should not rule out steps to help improve its health.

“An ISA-approved specialist can help you learn what can help trees survive and last longer,” he said.

To contact the city arborist’s office, call 706-236-4585, ext. 477.