Signs of Dead or Dying Trees
Your best bet for identifying dead trees is to rely on the expertise of an insured arborist like Blackhawk, however, there are a few signs you can look for that are possible indicators of a sick or diseased tree.
Fallen Branches
You can expect your trees to naturally lose a few branches to severe storms and high winds. However, if a tree starts to lose limbs outside of inclement weather, then it might be dying or already dead.
Cracked, Loose, or Rotten Bark
Unless your tree is a birch, maple, or similar type of tree that has naturally peeling bark, then the bark should be soft and pliable. If you see the bark has started to rot or chip loose then you’ve probably got a tree that’s dead or will be soon.
Rotten Roots
Root rot is easily evidenced by signs of mushrooms or other fungi growing at the base of the tree or along the trunk. If you see signs of soggy, rotten roots, then there’s a good chance the health of your tree is in serious jeopardy.
Leaves Falling Outside of Autumn
If the foliage of a tree starts to fall outside of its natural seasonal cycle, then the tree is most likely sick or diseased. Left untreated, a sick or diseased tree will eventually weaken and die off.
Holes or Bald Spots in the Wood
Have you spotted holes, burrows, or bald spots in the wood of a tree? Critters and insects love to make their homes in the recesses of tree trunks. Unfortunately, these cavities in the wood are easily prone to rot and decay, which can weaken or kill the tree.
A Leaning Trunk
No tree is going to be 100% straight. Trees naturally change direction as they grow to take in more sunlight. The issue occurs when a tree’s root system becomes uprooted as it leans further and further. When this happens the soil starts to erode around the base of the tree and it becomes increasingly unstable and prone to falling.
Dead Tree Removal for Old, Dying, and Diseased Trees
Do you have a particular tree on your property that you’re worried about? Unsure if a tree poses a threat of falling over and damaging your property? Need help figuring out whether or not a tree is still alive? Let the experts at Blackhawk help. Contact us today for a free tree service quote!