Dying and decaying trees pose imminent safety hazards. Understanding how to tell if a tree is dying can help you mitigate risks by removing hazardous trees from your property as soon as possible. Below, our team from Limbwalkers Tree & Crane Service, a leading tree service contractor in Hickory, NC, discusses everything you need to know about identifying a dying tree.
The Top Signs of a Dying Tree
Dying and decaying trees typically show many indicators of tree distress that can help you determine the best course of action. The top signs of a dying tree include the following:
1. Shedding Bark or Sticks
One of the most obvious symptoms of tree distress is bark shedding. Trees shed their bark in excess when they lack the proper nutrients to thrive. When you notice bark peeling away in hunks, you should look for other indicators, such as extra sticks on the ground.
When trees are healthy, small branches and twigs are too flexible to break off easily. You may see some sticks on the ground from windy days, but you shouldn’t see enormous piles. You may have an issue if you find excessive sticks and bark shedding from the tree.
2. Visible Rot, Termites, or Fungus
Your tree health assessment should also look for fungus growth, tree rot, and termite damage. In the early stages, these issues can be mitigated. Later on, though, rot, fungus, and termites can spread throughout the tree, causing irreversible damage.
3. New Leaning
If you notice the tree leaning in a new direction or at a slightly steeper angle, call an expert tree service immediately. Any new leaning indicates damage to the roots, which means the tree could fall at any time.
4. Splits, Holes, or Cuts
Tree injuries, such as major branch splits, trunk holes, or cuts, can be difficult to recover from. Such injuries often happen after a storm or over time from insect damage.
5. No Foliage, Branch, or Trunk Growth
Trees should sprout new leaves each spring and summer, and the branches and trunk should gradually grow over the years. If you notice that the foliage never recovers from the winter and the entire plant lacks growth, your tree may be declining.
6. Dry, Brittle, Brown Branches
If you haven’t yet paid much attention to your trees, you can conduct a quick, easy test by going outside and examining a few of the smaller branches.
Test how easily the branches break off. If they snap easily, the tree may be dying. The insides of the branches should also be green rather than brown and dry.
Take Action Now Before the Tree Falls
Recognizing tree decline isn’t always easy. At Limbwalkers Tree & Crane Service, we know everything about tree health. If you need help figuring out how to tell if a tree is dying, you’ve come to the right place.
Call Limbwalkers Tree & Crane Service today at (828) 413-7227 to schedule a tree inspection.
