Characteristics of a Dying Tree

Identifying a dead tree lets you know its time to safely get rid of it.

Sometimes, there is nothing else that you can do to save a tree in your landscape. It is important to know when a tree is dying so you can safely remove it from your yard. However, other times the tree looks like it's dying, but you may still be able to revive it with proper care.

Dead Wood

If a tree has sections of dead wood that reach around its circumference or that go more than two-thirds through the thickness of the main trunk, it is dying, although there is a chance that the tree might be revived if dead limbs or branches are removed. Look for areas of the tree where no leaves or buds are growing. If bark has also fallen off those areas or if the limbs are sagging from the tree, then you know that part of the tree is dead and the entire tree may be dying.

Disease Markers

Look for areas of missing bark caused by canker, which is produced by fungal diseases. If the missing bark extends more than halfway around the tree or if it is connected to a hole or crack in the tree, the tree is not stable and is likely dying. Extensive fungus on the tree with soft or rotted wood underneath is a sign that disease is taking over the tree. Fungal infections also sometimes leave large holes that put the stability and strength of the tree at risk.

Structural Problems

Structural problems affect the ability of a tree to survive and often pose a risk to other trees, buildings or people in the area. A tree that suddenly starts to lean sharply is a potential hazard. Root structure can be affected, causing a decline in a trees's health, if the roots protrude through the soil and then are cut or damaged. Large cracks or splits anywhere along the tree also indicate it that might be dying. Because all these problems hold the potential for a tree to fall, you should have a certified arborist examine the tree to assess its condition and advise about removal.

Reviving a Tree

A tree that is sick but not yet dying may be revived with some extra care. First, you need to treat the underlying cause of its problems. Fungicide or insecticide should be used if insects or fungal infections are causing damage. Adequate water is important for a sick tree, as drought exacerbates any other problems a tree is having or can kill the tree on its own. Prune dead or dying limbs so the tree's energy goes toward creating healthy growth. If a tree is leaning or has root damage, you can anchor stakes in the ground and tie it in place to create a stable foundation for it.

References

• California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection; Identifying Dead and Dying Conifers on Private Land in California; Don Owen; February 2005
• CincinnatiTrees.com: How to Identify a Dead or Dying Tree
• City of Minnetonka: Identifying Hazard Trees
• Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and USDA Forest Service: How to Recognize Hazardous Defects in Trees; Jana Albers, et al.;1996
• East Texas Gardening; Disease Not Usually the Cause of Unhealthy Trees; Keith C. Hansen
• U.S. Forest Service: Factors Influencing Tree Hazard

Resources

• LEAF: Signs and Symptoms of Tree Damage - Prevention and Controls
• North Dakota State University; Deciduous Tree Diseases; R.W. Stack, et al.; November 1995
• University of Rhode Island: Maple Tree Decline