Is your tree sporting new symptoms that leave you wondering whether it’s dying or dead? Knowing how to tell if a tree is dead is essential for homeowners who want to nurse sick trees back to life. Let’s look at some symptoms to watch out for and how the pros at Slaters Tree Care can help.

The Importance of Identifying a Dead Tree

A declining tree is very different from a tree that’s already dead. When treated early, a sick tree has the potential to become healthy and thrive again. A dead tree, on the other hand, may be at risk of falling when the next storm blows in. If you’re wondering how to know if a tree is dead, you can perform the scratch test. Simply scratch a few twigs to see if the flesh of the tree is green, which means it’s still very much alive.

Symptoms Of A Dying Tree

If you’re concerned, look for these signs that a tree is dying:

  • Cracks in the trunk. Deep vertical cracks are sure signs that the tree has weakened and is at risk of falling — especially if the cracks go into the external cavity of the trunk.
  • Peeling bark. Peeling or missing bark leaves the tree’s trunk vulnerable to pests and other diseases. These weak points allow the tree to deteriorate quickly.
  • Mushrooms growing at the base of the trunk. Mushrooms growing near the roots are a sure sign that the roots or trunk of your tree are rotting.
  • Branches that are bare with no living buds or leaves. Bare branches or branches that are full of dead leaves are a sure sign that something is wrong.
  • Branches that look like they could fall. A few dead branches are common and can be eliminated during a quick pruning session. Several dead branches are a sign that the tree is dying, and they’re at risk of falling on structures or people below.
  • Bugs are present. Carpenter ants and bark beetles thrive on trees that are dying or dead. If you spot these critters, you should call an arborist right away to save your tree.

Bare and fragile-looking branches are especially worrisome because they’re at risk of falling in the slightest breeze. A fallen tree isn’t always covered by insurance — especially if it can be proven that the tree was dead or neglected. Investing in a sick tree can certainly save money (and eliminate the risk of injury) down the road.

If you’re wondering, “Is my tree dead?” you can perform the scratch test. If it fails the test or presents any of the above symptoms, it’s certainly dying and needs to be treated quickly.

Why Professional Services are Necessary

A professional tree service has arborists who know how to diagnose a tree’s condition and treat it effectively. If your tree is exhibiting symptoms of sickness or infestation, it’s extremely important to treat it quickly. Although you may be able to treat it by trial and error, a professional arborist knows how to save a dying tree so it can be done efficiently, effectively, and at an affordable price. That way, you don’t have to waste time and money, and your tree can get the care it needs right away.

Trust Slater’s Tree Care for Expert Tree Evaluations

If you’re curious about how to tell if a tree is dead, or if you have questions about the trees on your property, contact the experts at Slater’s Professional Tree Care. Born and raised in Sonoma County, our arborists are experts at caring for California trees, and we’re committed to keeping them healthy and strong. We offer professional and affordable tree care for clients throughout Santa Rosa and Sonoma County, with customer satisfaction at the forefront of what we do.

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