When we think of dead trees, we usually think of the classic look of bare branches in the summertime, huge holes or splits in the trunk, large limbs breaking off and falling to the ground. And yes, that’s what a dead tree will look like, eventually (if it lasts that long upright — the other option is a dead tree toppled over across a road or onto someone’s roof). But it’s really a good idea to know what signs of dead and dying trees to look out for, so that things don’t get so dangerous before you realize your tree is on its way out. How can you, as a homeowner, spot a dead or dying tree before it becomes a serious hazard? And what should you do if you suspect your tree is past all hope?
5 Signs of Major Tree Health Issues
Lack of Leaves or Buds
This sign is a classic for a reason — it’s a really bad sign if your tree doesn’t bud or leaf out in the spring and summer. Likewise, if your tree’s leaves have gone brown well before autumn, you should be concerned for its health.
Limb Loss
Losing a significant branch can happen to any tree, especially after thunderstorms, ice storms, or strong winds. But it’s still a sign that bears consideration — if your tree has lost a large branch, you should at least consider that the tree might be struggling.
Mushrooms
Molds and mushrooms rarely grow in or on healthy trees. If you’re noticing a lot of mold or fungi growing on your tree, you should consider whether or not your tree might already be dying.
Peeling, Cracking, Dry Bark
Some species of trees naturally have bark that is shed as part of their lifecycle. But for trees that don’t have this characteristic type of bark, peeling, dry bark is a bad sign in terms of tree health.
Tilted or Leaning Trunk
If your tree has started to lean, you have an arboreal emergency. Sometimes otherwise healthy trees can start to lean or tilt, but even if they’re ok in terms of health, they’ll need some help from your local tree service company to stay upright. Call us today for help with a tiled tree!
What To Do If You’re Worried That Your Tree Is Dying?
Always call in a professional if you think your tree is dead or dying. First, because you might be wrong, and the sooner you call in your local tree service, the better the chance that we can save your tree (if it’s possible to save it). We’ve seen trees that exhibit all of the signs listed above and are still, surprisingly, salvageable. So, although it’s a good idea to keep an eye out for these signs of major tree health issues, that doesn’t mean that there’s definitely no hope of saving your tree.
If there’s some reason you need to delay making that call, or if your local tree removal company can’t come out right away, there are some important steps you can take while you wait for your dead tree to be removed. First, if there’s anything valuable and movable in the vicinity of your tree (like cars) move them to another location while you wait for the tree service professionals to arrive. (You’ll have to move your cars away from the tree so that we can do our work, anyway.) Second, tape or block off the area in the vicinity of the tree, if possible. Put out “CAUTION” tape in the area around where the tree could fall or lose large limbs, so no one decides to play or hang out in a dangerous area. If your tree overhangs public space, or looks like it could fall onto a road, sidewalk, or park, call your local authorities — they may have emergency crews available to come take a look at your tree if it poses a threat to public health.
If you’re here in Cincinnati, give us a call at Tree Images. We have a 24/7 hotline for dealing with tree emergencies, and we’re ready to come help with your dead or dying tree at any time. We have the expertise to handle dead trees quickly and safely. We’ll handle the hassle so you don’t have to worry.
