Dead trees may look harmless, but a sudden heavy gust of wind or a thunderstorm could lead to injuries and property damage, costing you hundreds or thousands of dollars. The larger the tree, the more damage it will do. Learning how to identify a dead tree will save money or even lives.
If you need help identifying tree decay, our certified arborist in Merrit Island, FL, at Redwine’s Tree Service can assess your tree and determine its condition. Keep reading to learn how to spot the signs so you can know when to call us.
Dead Tree Symptoms
It’s sometimes easy to spot dead trees because they look lifeless, but they occasionally blend in with the others, especially in winter. Many signs won’t be apparent until late spring or early summer when other trees flourish.
Look for these dead tree indicators:
- Tree decay: Any sign of decay on the branches, trunk, and bark are clear tree mortality signs.
- Tree angle: Trees leaning more than 15 degrees are likely dead or dying due to root or storm damage.
- Dead branches: Single branches can die on a healthy tree, but multiple dead branches indicate the entire tree might be dead or very close to it.
- Bark damage: Branch and bark conditions are tell-tale signs of tree health. Healthy bark is smooth, while unhealthy bark has holes and cracks and falls off easily.
- Pest problems: Existing pests or signs of pest damage could be the reason why the tree died.
Dying Tree Symptoms
Dying trees look different than dead trees because they’re still mostly alive with green leaves, and may even produce flowers and fruit despite nearing the end of their lives.
Your trees might be dying if you notice any of these signs:
- Peeling bark: Bark peeling off easily means there is a pest or disease that is causing problems. The bark should be secure on the tree.
- Nesting animals: Some small mammals like to live in dead or dying trees. If you notice new animals moving into your tree, you should check on its health.
- Falling branches: Trees drop unhealthy branches. If your tree drops branches without any storms or damage causing it, the tree may be dying.
- Fungal growth: Fungal growth on trees is a clear sign that decay is starting. Fungi grow where there is decay, so if you see any mushrooms, call an arborist to inspect your tree.
How To Save a Dying Tree
Speak to an arborist about saving a dying tree. They can determine whether the tree will bounce back. In some cases, you may not want to save the tree if it requires significant pruning to the point of becoming an eyesore.
Call Redwine’s Tree Service for Tree Health Assessment
If you don’t know how to identify a dead tree, call Redwine’s Tree Service. We’ll inspect any tree, including topped trees that don’t seem like they’re recovering as they should, and advise you on whether a tree removal permit might be necessary. Call us today at (321) 615-1427 to request a free estimate.