How to Tell If a Tree is Dying

Trees in your garden or yard can provide beauty, shade, and oxygen. However, if your trees are starting to look sick or aren’t doing well, it’s important to take action right away.

In order to tell whether or not a tree is dying, there are a few key signs you can look for.

1. Sticks Everywhere on the Ground

One of the most common signs that a tree is dying is an excessive amount of sticks and twigs on the ground all the year. If there are significantly more sticks on the ground around your tree than usual, this is a sign that the tree is shedding its branches. This can be caused by a number of things, such as disease, pests, or damage to the tree.

2. Bare Patches on the Tree

If you notice that certain parts of your tree are starting to look thin and appear to be dying, this is usually caused by internal damage or infestation. Similarly, if the leaves of your tree start to look withered or discolored, it could also indicate a problem with the health of your tree.

3. The Bark is Falling Off

If you notice that the bark of your tree is starting to fall off or flake in certain areas, this could be a sign that the tree is dying. While some trees naturally shed their bark from time to time, if it’s happening too frequently or there are large patches missing, it generally indicates a problem with the health of the tree.

4. Cracks in the Trunk or Peeling Bark

Cracks and peeling bark can indicate that the tree is suffering from damage or disease. 

5. No Green Under the Bark

If there is no green under the bark, it means that the tree isn’t getting the nutrients it needs to survive. This can be caused by a number of things, such as disease, pests, or root damage.

6. You Can See Wood Decay or Fungus

If you can see rot, mushrooms, fungus on your tree, it is usually a sign that the tree is dying. This is usually caused by rot or decay within the tree, which can spread and kill the tree if left untreated.

7. Open Wounds on the Tree

If you notice open wounds on your tree, this can also be a sign that it is dying. This could be caused by damage from pests or animals, as well as other issues impacting the health of your tree.

8. No Leaves in the Spring

If there are no leaves on your tree in spring, it means that the tree isn’t producing new growth and may have been damaged at some point in the past year.

9. Multiple Branches that Have No Living Buds

If you notice that one or more branches of your tree have no living buds, this could be a sign that the tree is dying. A tree will often drop its branches if it is sick or stressed in some way, so it’s important to monitor changes and take action quickly if necessary.

10. Root Damage

If a tree experiences root damage, this can impact its ability to survive and thrive. This may be caused by environmental factors such as drought, flooding, or frost. Root damage can also occur due to pests or other issues within the soil.

11. Brittle Branches

Brittle branches often indicate that there is something wrong with the health or structure of your tree, and it may be time to take action to preserve its well-being.

12. The Tree Leans to One Side

If the tree starts to lean to one side, this usually indicates that the roots are starting to rot or decay, which can cause the tree to become unstable and eventually topple over.

Final Thought

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to take action right away. Consult with a tree specialist to determine the best course of action to save your tree. Whether you need to trim the tree or perform more intensive treatment, there are steps you can take to help your tree recover.

With proper care and attention, it may be possible to save a dying tree and maintain the beauty of your yard or garden for years to come.