The Problem: A Leaning Tree and Early Signs of Borer
When a tree starts leaning toward your roof, it moves from a landscaping concern to a safety one pretty quickly. That was exactly the situation for a homeowner in Karrinyup who called Green Surgery in September, after noticing their tree was not only growing toward the roofline but showing a worrying amount of dead wood throughout the canopy.
On arrival, the problem was clear. A closer inspection of the dead branches revealed something more concerning than expected — early signs of borer activity. Borers are wood-boring insects that tunnel into trees and compromise their structural integrity from the inside. Catching them early, as was the case here, makes a significant difference to the tree’s long-term survival.
What Green Surgery Did
The team carried out a full pruning service to address both issues at once.
Roof Clearance Pruning
Branches growing toward the roof were carefully removed to create a safe clearance, reducing the risk of damage during strong Perth winds.
Borer Management and Deadwooding
Affected branches showing signs of borer were pruned back, and the canopy was deadwooded throughout to remove further deterioration. The tree was then thinned to improve light penetration and airflow — both of which help a tree recover and resist future pest pressure.
What Happens Next
Because borer infestations require ongoing monitoring, the job did not stop at pruning. A follow-up visit has been scheduled to assess whether the tree needs a specialist treatment mix to fully address the borer and prevent re-infestation. Getting on top of it early gives this tree a strong chance of a full recovery.
Is Your Tree Showing Similar Signs?
If you have a tree in Karrinyup or the surrounding northern suburbs that is showing dead wood, unusual dieback, or growing too close to your home, it is worth having it assessed sooner rather than later. Green Surgery offers honest assessments and practical solutions — no unnecessary removals, just the right care for the tree and the property.
[General disclaimer] The information in this post is for general guidance only and may not reflect current local regulations. Readers should verify requirements with the relevant local authority.
Looking for professional tree pruning in Karrinyup?
Contact Green Surgery today to arrange a free quote and keep your trees safe, healthy, and looking their best.
Jayson Wilmot is a qualified Perth arborist with more than 10 years of experience in tree pruning, tree removal, and tree care. As the owner of the Green Surgery and team leader, Jayson focuses on helping homeowners and businesses keep their properties safe, healthy, and compliant with local council requirements.
His hands-on experience covers everything from tree preservation and transplanting to managing firebreaks and storm-damage clean-ups. Jayson’s approach is simple — every job should protect both people and the environment.
Outside of work, he enjoys exploring Western Australia’s bushland and sharing practical tips on how to maintain thriving, well-balanced trees across Perth’s suburbs.
