Martha Stewart Features SavATree Expert on Spotting a Dangerous Leaning Tree

August 2026

Erik Lindberg, ISA Certified Arborist and Assistant Director of Plant Health Care (PHC) at SavATree, was featured in Martha Stewart, sharing his expert guidance on when to raise concerns about a leaning tree. 

The article, published on August 29, 2026, explained that a leaning tree is not always a sign of a problem, and walked readers through how to tell if a tree is established, self-corrected lean, or if a tree is losing its anchor and may be dangerous. 

Erik Lindberg's core statement was that the warning sign is not the lean itself, but new movement. As he explained, a tree that has grown with a lean will have undisturbed soil around its base, while a failing tree shows fresh cracks in the soil, soil pulling away, or lifted roots. Fresh cracks, lifted roots, or a sudden shift in angle all mean the tree's stability has changed, and it needs prompt, professional evaluation.

When a tree shows those signs, Lindberg advised staying clear of the fall zone and calling a qualified arborist, since an unstable tree can store enormous force and only a trained professional can determine whether it can be stabilized or needs to come down. He also emphasized that long-term stability starts on planting day. Choosing a tree that fits the space, setting the root flare at the right depth, and staking young trees when they need extra support all help keep a tree growing straight.

A SavATree ISA Certified Arborist can assess a leaning tree's root health, stability, and the potential targets in its fall zone to determine the safest course of action.

Read the full article here