How to Tell When a Tree Dies: Warning Signs and What to Do

Is your tree looking a bit sickly? It’s important to be aware of the signs of your tree’s health status so that you can take action to prevent any further damage it may cause. In this blog post, we will discuss how to tell that a tree has died and what you can do about it.

How to Tell If Your Tree Is Dying:

Defoliation

• If the leaves are discolored or falling off during the growing season and the branches are bare, it’s likely that the tree is dying or possibly already dead.

Detaching Bark

• If the bark is peeling or flaking off, this is another sign that the tree is in bad health.

Fungus Growth:

• If you see mushrooms or other fungi growing on the tree, this is a sign that the tree is decaying.

If you’re not sure whether or not your tree is dead, you can always consult with tree care experts. They will be able to give you a definitive answer and help you figure out what to do next. In some cases, you may be able to save the tree with some treatment. However, if the tree is too far gone, you may need to have it removed.

Why Are Dead Trees Considered a Problem?

Aside from the fact that they can be unsightly, dead trees can also pose a serious safety hazard. If the tree is located near your home or other buildings, it could fall and cause damage. Dead trees are also more susceptible to insect infestations and diseases, which can spread to other nearby trees.

To check your dying tree for safety risks, look for:

Trunk Cracks

• If there are large cracks in the trunk of the tree, this means that the tree is structurally unsound and is at risk of toppling over.

Tree Trunk Damage:

• If there is damage to the tree trunk, such as cracks or splits, this means that the tree is in danger of falling over.

Damaged Roots:

• If the roots of the tree are damaged, this can cause the tree to become unstable. You may be able to see exposed or damaged roots if you dig around the base of the tree.

How to Tell If Your Dead Tree Must Be Removed:

If you are not sure whether or not to remove a dead tree, there are a few things you can consider.

Location

First, think about the location of the tree. If it is located near your home or other buildings, it is important to have it removed so that it does not pose a safety hazard. If the tree is located in a remote area, though, you may not need to remove it. However, you should still keep an eye on it and make sure that it does not pose a safety hazard. If the tree starts to lean or if there is any damage to the roots, you should have it removed.

Size

You should also consider how big the tree is. If it is a large tree, it may be too difficult or expensive to remove on your own. In this case, you may need to hire a professional tree removal service.

Condition

Finally, think about the condition of the tree. If it’s in danger of toppling over or if it has already fallen, it definitely needs to be removed. Also, if more than half of the tree is damaged, it’s important to have it removed. A tree that is this damaged is unlikely to recover and will only continue to decline.

What to Do If Your Tree Is Dead

If you think your tree may be dead, do not wait to take action. Be sure to consult with a tree care expert so that you can figure out the best course of action. Taking care of dead trees is important for the safety of your home and property, as well as the health of other nearby trees.

We hope this blog post has been helpful in teaching you how to tell if a tree has died and what you can do about it. Remember, if you are ever unsure, always consult with a tree care expert to get a definitive answer.

If you need advice or assistance with a tree in decline, get in touch with the ISA-Certified Arborists at TreeNewal and enjoy tailored tree care advice.

To learn more about How to Tell When a Tree Dies: Warning Signs and What to Do, call our Argyle and Southlake-based teams

at (817) 592-6846 or send us a message.

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