Trees add beauty and shade to any yard. But sometimes, a tree can become sick or die. Knowing the signs early can help you save it or decide if it needs removal. Here’s how to tell if a tree is dead and what you can do about it.
Symptoms of a Dying Tree
A tree doesn’t die overnight. It shows warning signs. Look for these common symptoms:
- Leaves are missing or look unhealthy. A tree that drops leaves too early or has brown, dry, or shriveled leaves may be in trouble.
- Bark is peeling or falling off. A healthy tree has firm, intact bark. If it peels away or falls off in chunks, the tree may be dying.
- Dead branches break easily. If branches snap off easily and have no green inside, they may be dead.
- Fungi or mushrooms are growing at the base. Mushrooms around the trunk could mean root decay. This is a serious problem.
- Trunk has deep cracks or holes. Cracks, cavities, or missing bark may mean internal decay.
- Tree leans more than usual. A sudden lean could mean root damage, which can make the tree unstable.
If you see these signs, your tree may be dying. But how can you know for sure?
Signs of a Dying Tree
A dying tree often shows clear warning signs. Brittle branches break easily and may have no leaves. Canopy death is another red flag—if large sections of the tree stop growing leaves, it may be struggling. Trunk damage, such as cracks, open wounds, or peeling bark, can mean internal decay.
A leaning tree that wasn’t leaning before may have root damage, making it unstable. Construction damage, trenching, or grading near the tree can stress its roots, cutting off nutrients and water.
Fungi growing at the base can signal rot, while a termite infestation weakens the wood from the inside. If a tree looks stressed, call an arborist before it becomes a safety hazard.
How to Confirm a Tree is Dead
If you suspect a tree in your yard is dead, you need to confirm before deciding on the next steps. A dead tree can become a safety hazard, so early diagnosis is key. Start with a scratch test—gently scrape the bark on a small branch. If the layer underneath is green, the tree is still alive. If it’s dry and brown, that part of the tree is dead. Try snapping a twig; live wood bends, while dead wood breaks easily.
Next, inspect the base of the tree for signs of rot, fungus, or physical damage. Mushrooms growing around the trunk or soft, crumbling wood could indicate decay. If the trunk has deep cracks or large areas of missing bark, the tree may be beyond saving. Check for green twigs or new buds—if none appear during the growing season, the tree may no longer be alive.
A professional tree inspection by an arborist can confirm the tree’s condition and recommend a treatment plan if recovery is possible. If the tree is unstable, options like tree bracing may help. However, if the damage is severe, tree removal may be the safest choice. Don’t wait until a storm brings it down—address the issue early to protect your property and loved ones.
How to Save a Dying Tree
Some trees can be saved with the right care. Here’s what to do:
- Water Properly
Too much or too little water can harm a tree. If the soil is dry and cracked, water deeply once a week. If the ground is soggy, cut back on watering.
2. Mulch Around the Base
Mulch helps retain moisture and protects roots. Spread a 2-4 inch layer of mulch around the tree. But keep it away from the trunk to prevent rot.
3. Trim Dead Branches
Prune away dead or diseased branches to help the tree focus energy on new growth.
4. Check for Pests and Disease
Look for insects, holes in the bark, or black spots on leaves. If you see any, call an arborist.
5. Fertilize if Needed
A weak tree may need extra nutrients. Use a slow-release fertilizer to boost its health.
6. Get Professional Help
If your tree is struggling, an arborist can diagnose the problem and recommend treatment.
Tree Care and Management
If you’re unsure whether your tree is dead or just struggling, start by checking its tree bark and branches. A healthy tree has firm bark and flexible branches, while a dying tree may have torn branches or bark peeling away. Look for broken branches, missing leaves, or signs of decay like rot and fungus. If your tree is losing its stability, leaning, or has damaged tree roots, it may be unsafe.
Caring for trees means more than just watering them. Regular tree trimming helps remove weak limbs before they become a hazard. If you spot serious issues, a tree specialist can assess the damage and recommend treatment, such as rot and fungus treatments to stop disease from spreading. But sometimes, saving a tree isn’t possible. In that case, a tree removal company can safely take it down before it becomes a danger to your home or property.
If you need expert advice, contact an arborist or a tree care company. They can help diagnose issues, provide proper care, and keep your trees healthy for years to come.
Is Your Tree in Trouble?
If your tree looks unhealthy, it might be dying. Signs like peeling bark, dead branches, or no leaves could mean serious problems. Trees that lean suddenly or have mushrooms growing at the base may have root damage. A dying tree isn’t just an eyesore—it can be a safety risk. If left unchecked, it could fall and damage property or injure someone.
Not sure if your tree is dead? A simple scratch test can help. Gently scrape a small branch. If the wood underneath is green, the tree is still alive. If it’s brown and dry, that part of the tree is dead. If most of the tree fails this test, it’s time to call a professional.
At Strobert Tree Services, we specialize in tree pruning, tree removal, and tree healthcare. Our certified arborists can assess the health of your trees and recommend the best course of action. Whether you need to trim dead branches, treat a sick tree, or safely remove a hazard, we’re here to help.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Call today for a free consultation and protect your property with expert tree care.
