Many homeowners worry when their trees look lifeless. Are they just dormant, or are they dead? Knowing the difference can save you time, money, and worry. In this article, we will explain how to tell if your tree is still alive or if it’s time to call a professional.
At Strobert Tree Services, we provide expert care for trees. Our certified arborists can assess your tree’s health, offer pruning, and perform removals if necessary. If you're unsure about your tree, contact us today!
What Is a Dormant Tree?
A dormant tree is not dead. It is just resting. Dormancy is a natural process that happens during colder months. In the fall, trees lose their leaves and slow down their growth. This helps them survive winter.
Think of it like hibernation. Bears sleep through the winter to conserve energy. Trees do something similar. They stop producing new growth and focus on conserving nutrients.
Most trees go dormant in late fall and winter. Once spring arrives, they wake up and start growing again.
What Is a Dead Tree?
A dead tree is not coming back. It has stopped all life processes. It will not produce leaves or grow again. Dead trees can become dangerous because they lose strength and may fall.
If you have a dead tree on your property, it should be removed as soon as possible. It could fall on your home, car, or even people.
| Feature | Dormant Tree | Dead Tree |
|
Leaves |
No leaves in winter but regrows in spring | No leaves year-round |
| Branches | Flexible, not brittle | Dry and brittle |
| Bark Conditions | Mostly intact, no deep cracks | Peeling, cracked, or missing |
| Buds | Present, even if small | No buds present |
| Scratch Test | Green layer under bark | Brown or dry under bark |
| Bend Test | Bends without snapping | Snaps easily |
| Root Condition | Roots are firm and intact | Roots may be decayed or loose |
| Response to Season Change | Shows new growth in spring | No growth in any season |
How to Tell the Difference
It can be tricky to tell if a tree is dormant or dead. Here are five simple tests you can do.
- The Scratch Test
The scratch test is the easiest way to check if a tree is still alive.
- Take a small knife or your fingernail.
- Scratch the bark on a small branch.
- Look underneath.
If you see green, the tree is still alive. If you see brown or dry wood, that part of the tree may be dead.
Try this test on different branches. If all parts are dry and brown, your tree is likely dead.
2. The Bend Test
Another simple method is the bend test.
- Take a small branch and try bending it.
- If it snaps easily, it may be dead.
- If it bends without breaking, it is still alive.
Dead branches are brittle and dry. Dormant trees still have flexible twigs.
3. Check for Buds
Even in winter, dormant trees may have tiny buds on their branches. These buds will bloom in spring. Look closely at your tree:
- Small, firm buds? Your tree is alive and dormant.
- No buds? Your tree may be dead.
4. Watch for New Growth
Spring is the best time to check if a tree is alive. If you see new leaves and buds, your tree was just dormant.
If nothing grows, your tree may have died over the winter.
5. Inspect the Trunk
A healthy tree trunk should be firm with no large cracks or missing bark.
If your tree’s trunk has:
- Deep cracks
- Hollow spots
- Large areas of missing bark
It may be rotting and should be checked by a professional.
Common Trees That Go Dormant
Most trees go dormant in cold months. Here are some examples:
- Maple trees
- Oak trees
- Cherry trees
- Elm trees
- Ash trees
Evergreens, like pine and spruce, don’t lose all their leaves, but they still slow their growth in winter.
Signs of Dormancy in Trees
When colder months arrive, trees enter dormancy to survive winter. This doesn’t mean they are dead—it’s just their way of conserving energy. One of the first signs of a dormant tree is bare branches. Deciduous trees shed their fallen leaves, leaving behind a skeletal appearance. But if you look closely, you may notice dormant buds or swollen buds at the tips of tree branches. These apical buds hold the potential for new growth once temperatures rise.
Another key sign is branch flexibility. A dormant tree’s branches remain pliable, while a dead branch snaps easily. If you suspect a tree may be lifeless, try scratching the bark. The cambium layer, just beneath the outer bark, should be green if the tree is alive.
Tree health also depends on strong attachment points. The branch bark ridge and branch collar protect the tree from damage and help new growth emerge. If you see broken buds but no signs of rot, your tree is likely dormant, not dead.
Maintaining Dormant Trees
Dormant trees may look lifeless, but they are still very much alive. During this period, trees slow their growth to conserve energy and protect themselves from harsh weather. Proper care ensures they stay healthy and strong for the next growing season.
One of the best ways to support a dormant tree is through winter pruning. Trimming dead or weak branches now helps shape the tree and encourages healthy growth in spring. An arborist consultation can help assess the tree’s needs and determine the best pruning practices for its species.
Even though a tree’s leaves are gone, its roots remain active. Root viability depends on moisture levels, so maintaining water retention in the soil is key. Applying mulch around the base helps lock in moisture and regulate temperature. Some trees, especially evergreen tree species, may need occasional watering if there’s a dry spell.
Trees also rely on nutrient retention during dormancy. They store nutrients and sugars from the previous growing season to fuel future growth. A tree health assessment can determine if the tree has enough resources to thrive. If needed, adding a slow-release fertilizer can support internal sugar levels and overall vitality.
As winter fades, look for tree buds as a sign of renewal. Buds hold the potential for new leaves, flowers, and branches. If a tree shows no signs of growth in spring, it may need professional attention to check for disease or damage.
Signs Your Tree May Be Dying
Not all trees die suddenly. Some slowly decline over time. Watch for these warning signs:
- No leaves in spring or summer
- Many dead branches
- Bark peeling off in large sections
- Fungal mushrooms growing on the trunk
- Leaning or unstable base
If you see these issues, your tree may be dying.
When to Call an Arborist
If you’re still unsure about your tree, call a certified arborist. At Strobert Tree Services, we offer:
- Tree inspections
- Pruning and trimming
- Tree removal
- Healthcare for sick trees
If your tree is dead or unsafe, we can safely remove it.
Protect Your Trees Year-Round
You can help your trees stay strong by giving them proper care.
- Water during dry months
- Mulch around the base to keep roots warm
- Prune dead branches to prevent disease
- Fertilize in spring for healthy growth
A little care goes a long way in keeping your trees healthy and safe.
Contact Strobert Tree Services Today!
Still wondering if your tree is dormant or dead? Let the experts help!
At Strobert Tree Services, we have certified arborists ready to assist you. Whether you need pruning, tree removal, or healthcare, we’ve got you covered.
