How To Identify a Dead Tree: Six Signs You Should Not Ignore
A dead or dying tree can make your property a safety hazard. That said, you want to check any tree on your property for disease or structural issues so you can act fast. As a top choice for tree care in Greater Austin, TX we highlight how to identify a dead tree.
Symptoms of a Dead or Dying Tree
Stay alert for the following symptoms of a dead tree and seek professional help the moment you suspect an issue with your tree.
1. Brittle Branches or Fallen Sticks
While even healthy trees shed sticks and dead branches occasionally, frequent shedding often indicates that a tree is dead. A healthy tree will have flexible twigs and branches, which bend easily rather than break off.
If you see broken twigs or branches on the ground around a tree, contact a tree expert for an inspection.
2. Peeling Bark or Cracking Wood
If your tree has peeling or flaking bark, it’s probably diseased or nutrient deficient. A tree’s bark, just like human skin, provides clues about underlying diseases or illnesses. Flaking accompanied by splitting wood can also be a sign of temperature changes.
Look under the tree’s bark to get an overall clue about the tree’s health. A healthy tree will have a layer of green underneath, while a dying tree will appear dry underneath the bark.
3. The Presence of Rot or Fungus
Still wondering how to identify a dead tree? Check for rot or fungus. If you notice symptoms of a rot or fungus infestation, try to address the issue as soon as possible.
Unfortunately, extensive damage may make the tree unsalvageable. You may have to schedule tree removal to minimize the risk of spreading.
4. Leaning
Unless the tree in question grew at an angle, a perfectly healthy tree should remain upright. If a tree starts leaning suddenly, it may have damaged or dying roots. Bracing the tree may help, but a tree leaning over often points to a fatal injury.
5. No Leaves
Lack of foliage is often the most apparent symptom of a dead tree. Bare branches on only one side of a tree could indicate root damage. No leaves may also mean disease or a pest infestation.
6. Open Wounds
Open trunk wounds often indicate a dying or dead tree. Besides leaving trees vulnerable to disease and fungus, open wounds also cause structural weakness.
Get in Touch With Your Local Tree Experts
Trust Monster Tree Service of Greater Austin to ensure you have a healthy, safe, and visually stunning yard. With the following comprehensive tree services, we take the guesswork out of taking care of trees:
Emergency removal services
Tree trimming and pruning
Plant health care
Tree fertilization services
Call Monster Tree Service of Greater Austin at (512) 641-5638 to request a free quote for service in Lakeway and surrounding areas throughout Greater Austin. Reach out for more information on how to identify a dead tree or to learn about the anatomy of a tree.