How To Tell If Your Tree Is Dying or Dead

When trees are unhealthy, they might give you obvious signs like dropping all their leaves. However, our experts for tree services in Round Rock, TX, can help you spot subtle signs before a catastrophic event occurs. Learn more about how to tell if your tree is dying and how we can help.

Signs to Watch for a Dead or Dying Tree:

Bark Is Shedding

When the bark is peeling from the trunk, you could have a serious problem. Shedding bark frequently indicates the trunk is not receiving the nutrients it needs. 

Arborists might try to encourage the bark to reattach by taping it back in place and applying water. However, significant bark loss is frequently a sign of infection and might not be repairable. The experts might have to cut down the tree to prevent the infection from spreading to other trees.

Lack of Healthy Leaves

One of the most obvious signs of a dying tree is leaf discoloration. Tree health issues related to the leaves are especially dangerous, as the plant likely is not receiving the moisture and nutrients it needs.

A sparse canopy because of dropped leaves could be a sign of root damage that is not visible. Trusted arborists can investigate all the clues regarding the health of the tree and try to determine the exact issue.

Dropped Brittle Branches

When trees are dying, they’re more likely to have brittle, stiff branches that do not stand up to heavy wind. They’ll break off and fall to the ground. Branches that are healthy should flex in the wind and remain attached to the tree without breaking.

Some trees experience branch breakage more often than others. If you have a species that is naturally susceptible to breakage, downed branches might not be a sign of health issues. Arborists can help diagnose the problem.

Visible Fungus or Insects

When the trunk or major limbs have sudden fungus growth or cavities, this is a concerning sign. You could have a severe infection, disease, or insect infestation on your hands. 

If you notice odd growth on the tree or active insects, an immediate investigation from tree care experts is necessary. 

Severely Leaning Trunk

Trees that start leaning to one side frequently have a severe problem. A loss of healthy roots under the ground might cause trees to lean.

It’s common for a new lean to occur after a thunderstorm, where rain soaks the ground, accompanied by high winds. When this happens, unhealthy roots cannot hold trees upright against the forces the storm is exerting.

Learn How Our Experts Can Help You Save Your Dying Trees

Learning how to tell if your tree is dying isn’t always easy for you as a homeowner. You may need the help of our experts at Blade Runner Tree Service. We’ll visit your Round Rock, TX, property and do a visual inspection to look for signs of disease and insects.

If you have fungal growth or trunk cracks, you should call us right away. Contact us today for a free estimate at (512) 222-2200.

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