I received a call recently about a leaning tree, just moments after my husband told me about a friend of his who had a tree fall on his property, causing quite a bit of damage.

A lot of people are dealing with tree problems due to saturated soil and wind — and making the wrong decisions could be costly.

A leaning tree is a tree in trouble. If it is a small or young tree, using a prop may help, though only temporarily.

If it is a large tree, then an arborist should be called immediately. Large, leaning trees can fail suddenly and disastrously and should be dealt with by professionals. Do not make any attempts to correct it yourself.

Healthy trees can be hazardous, also. Trees with multiple trunks are generally weaker than single-trunked trees and can pose a danger in wet and windy conditions.

Weakly-attached branches are more likely to fail than strong branches and should be removed. Branches in large trees can fall yet not hit the ground. Carefully inspect your trees for any branches that are no longer attached yet remain caught in other branches, as these can provide a nasty surprise for the unaware.

Sometimes, trees give us clear warnings they are in trouble. Cracks can form in trunks and large branches. Cavities can form and provide an ideal breeding place for decay. Bark can be damaged and allow in pests or disease.

If any of these conditions exist in a tree on your property, especially a large tree, I recommend you consult an arborist. An arborist certified by the International Society of Arboriculture or a consulting arborist who is a member of the American Society of Consulting Arborists will have passed tests in one form or another and usually will be a good choice. Certification does not guarantee top-notch service, but it does indicate a certain level of knowledge and technical ability.

• UC-certified Master Gardeners are available to answer your gardening questions from 9 a.m. to noon Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at 953-6112 or mgsanjoaquin@ucdavis.edu. Questions for Heather Hamilton can be submitted to ucmastergardener@gmail.com.