Like all living things, trees also die. While some trees naturally die of old age, many more die prematurely from improper care. Proper tree maintenance is crucial for your tree's health and longevity.
Sometimes trees die suddenly from illness or extreme weather. However, if you catch a tree before it's completely dead landscaping experts may be able to bring it back to life.
So how do you know if your tree actually dead or just sick? Check out our guide below on how to tell if a tree is dead.
Dangers of A Dead Tree
Leaving a dead tree on your property can prove to be dangerous. Dead branches are weak and can easily fall and damage your property, or seriously hurt someone you love. Plus if the tree is weak enough it can fall down, bringing powerlines or parts of your home with it.
Dead trees also attract insects, like termites, who will happily invade your home as well. Plus, dead trees can spread illness and disease to surrounding trees. For the health and safety of your family, it's crucial to remove dead trees from your property as soon as possible.
How to Tell If a Tree Is Dead: Dead Tree Symptoms
It can be difficult to tell if a tree is dead or just damaged. You wouldn't want to uproot a living tree if it can be saved. So, how do you make sure your tree is actually dead before you remove it?
Keep reading for our list of dead tree symptoms. If your tree is experiencing any of these symptoms there's a good chance it passed on.
Scratch and Break Test
The scratch test is one of the easiest and most straightforward ways to check on your tree's health. Take a knife and scratch the surface of one of your tree's branches. If the branch is moist and green inside, the tree is still very much alive.
The break test is another take on the Scratch Test. Simply break a branch in half to get a good look at the inside to see if it's still alive.
Damaged Roots
Damaged roots are a surefire sign that there is something seriously wrong with your tree. If your tree is leaning dramatically in one direction, the tree's roots are likely damaged.
Other factors like excavation projects, harsh weather, and erosion can distress a tree's root system as well.
Fungus Growth
Inspect the base of your tree and its trunk. If you notice any fungi growing around the base of your tree, the tree is probably dead. Fungus growth is usually a sign the trunk is rotted out internally and dead.
Trunk Damage
Your tree's trunk can give you a good idea about the overall health of your tree. Run your hands along the trunk and inspect it for any cracks or damage. If the trunk is damaged there's a good chance the tree is not healthy.
Healthy trees will be able to regenerate bark to replace the pieces they lost. If you notice large smooth areas on your tree, your tree is unhealthy.
Hire Landscaping Experts Today
Call a landscaping expert immediately if you suspect your tree may be sick or dead. They will know how to tell if a tree is dead, and they will have the experience to remove it safely.
Contact us today for a consultation, and we will have your yard looking lovely in no time!
