Wondering my Split Tree can be Repaired - or Should I Remove It? - Ask Extension
Hello,
I have a tree in my front yard that has split. It has been like this since we bought the house last year. Before I have it removed, I was asvi...
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Wondering my Split Tree can be Repaired - or Should I Remove It? #928207
Asked April 13, 2026, 9:34 AM EDT
Hello,
I have a tree in my front yard that has split. It has been like this since we bought the house last year. Before I have it removed, I was asvised to contact the U of M for advise on the best next steps.
Thank you for your time and help!!
Dakota County Minnesota
Expert Response
That is one unusual tree. Some questions I would ask you: Does the canopy leaf out well in the spring? Do the leaves and bark look healthy otherwise? Is the tree providing shade to cool your house in the hot weather? If either side of that tree were to collapse would it damage a structure? If either side of the tree were to collapse would it be a danger to people or animals? You might want to have a certified arborist evaluate the tree and give a recommendation.
Hello,
Thank you for reaching out! The canopy does still leaf out well in the spring and drops it's leaves just fine in the fall. The leaves look healthy! The bark also looks healthy, aside from the split. I wouldn't say the tree provides much shade to my house, but it does provide shade due to the abundance of leaves it produces. I would be slightly worried if it fell that it could damage my home, but only if it were in full production with leaves on the tree, and I don't believe it would be harm to people or animals (unless they stood right under it).
I do have a company coming to take a look at it, but wanted to reach out to the U first because that is what was recommended. Do you recommend that I continue forward with tree companies that have certified arborists?
Yes, I would consult a certified arborist.
