It can be alarming to step outside and notice the red maple you planted with your grandmother decades ago or the white oak that’s acted as your family’s favorite gathering spot for years is no longer the strong plant it once was. Now, it’s shedding bark, dropping limbs, or leaning precariously to one side. The thought that this tree might be nearing the end of its life is heartbreaking. But here’s the good news: not all hope is lost.
Many problems can be resolved with the help of a certified arborist. The key is to treat the tree as soon as possible. That’s why it’s important to familiarize yourself with the top signs of a dying tree. If you notice any of the following problems, call our team right away for a tree health assessment.
A Change in Leaf Color or Growth
If you see your tree’s foliage thinning, turning brown too early in the season, or developing unusual spots or discoloration, your tree might be crying out for help.
During spring and summer, healthy trees should flaunt vibrant, lush canopies. If, instead, your tree looks sparse, or its leaves curl and drop long before autumn, something’s wrong. Sometimes, this could point to nutrient deficiencies or water stress, but it could also signal deeper root damage or a disease like anthracnose.
To combat this, arborists can implement deep root fertilization treatments to restore nutrients and improve overall tree vigor. They can also perform a thorough health inspection to identify underlying conditions like root damage or fungal infections. In cases of disease, targeted fungicide treatments and irrigation adjustments may halt progression and give the tree a chance to recover.
Flaking or Decaying Bark
Take a moment to examine the tree bark. Is it flaking off in large patches? Are there deep cracks, holes, or signs of decay? When bark starts falling away or looks unusually brittle or dry, it can be a sign the tree is struggling.
In some cases, you might notice fungi growing around the base of the tree or on the trunk, both of which indicate internal rot. You should also keep an eye out for cankers — the sunken, dead areas on the bark that often indicate disease.
To help trees with bark issues, professionals may apply trunk injections to combat disease and support healing. Improving the surrounding soil conditions and applying pesticides can also bolster tree health.
Bare Branches and Brittle Limbs
Remember climbing that old maple in the backyard as a kid? It had strong limbs that could support your weight and then some. But if those same branches are now brittle, breaking easily, or completely bare when they should be full of leaves, the tree could be in decline. Just remember that a few dead limbs might not mean the entire tree is dying, but if you’re seeing more dead wood than living branches, it’s time to consult an expert.
An arborist can remove dead limbs through proper pruning, which helps redirect energy to healthier branches and reduces the risk of falling debris. Structural reinforcement using cables may also stabilize weak limbs. And if a disease or pest is causing limb loss, appropriate treatments like targeted sprays or systemic applications may be prescribed.
A Leaning or Cracking Trunk
What causes a tree to suddenly lean or crack down the middle? It’s not always an easy answer, but it’s certainly a red flag. A sudden lean could suggest root damage or a weakening trunk. Additionally, large vertical cracks or splits could indicate the internal structure is compromised. You will want to have the tree inspected as soon as possible to take steps to prevent it from giving out completely and falling.
To manage leaning or cracking trunks, arborists often use support systems like bracing rods and guy wires to stabilize the tree. If the issue stems from poor soil conditions or root problems, soil amendments or targeted root zone aeration may be needed.
Root Issues
While roots are out of sight, their health is crucial to a tree’s survival, so you will want to keep a close eye on the surface roots for potential issues. Consider whether the roots are visible and decaying or if there has been recent construction near the tree. Roots damaged by mechanical equipment or compacted by heavy foot traffic can become a major issue. And if your tree begins to tilt or you notice mushrooms growing around the root zone, you just may have a diseased or dying tree on your hands.
Tree professionals can use air spading techniques to safely expose and inspect the root system without causing damage. Based on what they find, they may recommend root collar excavation, fungal treatment, or decompacting the soil.
Pest Activity
Sometimes, dying trees invite company. Wood-boring beetles, aphids, and other insects, for example, can take advantage of a weakened tree. If you spot unusual insects, fine sawdust, or exit holes in the bark, your tree may be under siege. A certified arborist can help you address these signs of a dying tree and prevent future infestations.
Once the specific invaders are identified, arborists may use systemic insecticides, horticultural oils, or beneficial insects to restore balance. They may also strengthen the tree through nutrient management and proper pruning to reduce the tree’s vulnerability to future pest attacks.
When It’s Time to Let Go
Of course, not every tree can be saved. In situations where more than 50% of the tree is compromised or where the tree poses a safety hazard to your home or family, tree removal may be the safest choice. But before making that decision, let a tree care professional confirm whether all avenues for recovery have been explored.
Give Your Trees a Second Chance at Life With Blue Pine Works
Do any of these signs of a dying tree sound familiar? Know that there may still be hope for your beloved tree. At Blue Pine Works LLC, we offer a range of plant health care services that are designed to revitalize your trees and restore their natural beauty. So, if you need help fighting off pests, enriching your tree’s soil, or reinforcing a weakened trunk, we’ll be there for you. Reach out today, and let our team (led by Board-Certified Master Arborist Brandon Pankey) give your favorite trees the chance they deserve to thrive once again.