How to Spot Signs of a Dying Tree

Trees are vital to our environment and landscape, providing beauty, shade, and improved air quality. However, like all living things, trees have a lifespan and can suffer from diseases, environmental stress, or structural damage that can lead to their decline. Identifying a dying tree early can prevent property damage, safety hazards, and costly removal services. At LTRC Tree Specialist, we understand the importance of tree health and are here to help you recognize the warning signs that indicate a tree may be in distress.

Why It’s Important to Identify a Dying Tree

Dying trees pose significant risks to people and property. A weakened tree can shed branches unexpectedly, or worse, fall over entirely during storms or high winds. Spotting the signs of a dying tree early allows homeowners and businesses to take proactive measures, potentially saving the tree or, if necessary, removing it before it becomes a hazard.

Common Signs That a Tree Is Dying

1. Lack of Leaves or Unusual Leaf Behavior

One of the first signs of a dying tree is a change in its foliage. A healthy tree should have full, vibrant leaves during its growing season. If you notice that your tree has fewer leaves than usual, bare branches, or leaves that are discolored and wilting prematurely, it could indicate a problem.

In deciduous trees, dead branches may appear without leaves even in the warmer months. Evergreen trees that show excessive browning or dropping needles outside their normal shedding cycle could also be struggling.

2. Bark Damage and Cracks

The bark of a tree acts as a protective barrier, and any peeling, splitting, or cracking can be an indication of distress. If you notice large areas where the bark has fallen off, deep vertical cracks, or brittle bark that crumbles easily, your tree may be in trouble.

Another sign to look for is cankers—sunken or discolored areas in the bark. These are often caused by fungal infections or bacterial diseases and can lead to the tree’s decline if left untreated.

3. Presence of Fungi and Decay

Fungal growth on a tree is a major red flag. Mushrooms growing at the base or on the trunk suggest internal decay. While some fungi naturally coexist with trees, excessive fungal presence typically means that the tree’s internal structure is breaking down.

Soft, crumbly wood and hollow areas in the trunk or branches are strong indicators that the tree is rotting from the inside. If left unchecked, the decay can spread and make the tree structurally unstable.

4. Dead or Hanging Branches

Dead branches that remain attached to the tree can become dangerous over time. If branches snap off easily or appear brittle and lifeless, the tree is not distributing nutrients properly. Falling limbs can damage property and pose a serious safety hazard to people nearby.

5. Root Damage or Instability

The root system is the foundation of a tree’s health. If you notice visible root damage, such as exposed, rotting, or broken roots, it may indicate that the tree is struggling to absorb water and nutrients.

Leaning trees are another telltale sign of root instability. A tree that suddenly starts leaning may have compromised roots due to disease, soil erosion, or external damage. A leaning tree poses a serious risk of toppling over and should be assessed immediately.

6. Pest Infestation

Insects like termites, carpenter ants, and bark beetles are attracted to weakened trees. If you notice an excessive presence of these pests, it may indicate that your tree is in distress.

What Causes a Tree to Die?

• Diseases – Fungal, bacterial, and viral infections can weaken a tree’s ability to absorb nutrients and grow properly.
• Drought or Overwatering – Both lack of water and excessive moisture can harm a tree’s root system.
• Soil Compaction – Poor soil conditions can suffocate roots and prevent nutrient absorption.
• Construction Damage – Nearby construction can disturb a tree’s root system, leading to instability.
• Lightning or Storm Damage – Severe weather events can cause structural damage that weakens the tree over time.
• Aging – Like all living organisms, trees have a natural lifespan and eventually decline due to old age.

When to Call a Tree Specialist

If you notice one or more of these warning signs, it’s time to consult with a tree care professional. At LTRC Tree Specialist, we offer comprehensive tree health assessments to determine whether a tree can be saved or if removal is the best course of action.

A certified arborist can provide solutions such as:

• Tree trimming and pruning to remove dead or weak branches
• Disease treatment and pest control to restore tree health
• Support systems, such as cabling and bracing, to stabilize weakened trees
• Safe and efficient tree removal if the tree poses an immediate danger

Call LTRC-Today!

If you suspect that a tree on your property is declining, don’t wait until it becomes a hazard. Contact LTRC Tree Specialist today for expert tree care services and advice on maintaining the health of your trees for years to come.