The last thing you want on your North Carolina property is a dead tree. When a tree dies, it becomes a safety hazard and may cause problems for nearby trees if illness or disease is the cause of death. Knowing how to tell if a tree is dying helps you take the appropriate actions to protect your property before disaster strikes.
Raleighwood Tree Services is ultimate tree service specialist, so we know the dangers of dead trees. Below, our crew explains the common signs that dying trees often display.
Signs of Tree Sickness and Possible Death
A dead tree can cause substantial damage to a home or business. Strong winds could cause weak branches to break and fall onto structures, resulting in costly property damage. The entire tree could topple and cause extensive damage or serious injuries in the worst-case scenario.
Learn how to tell if a tree is dying by watching for these four warning signs.
1. Leaf Changes
One of the most obvious symptoms of a diseased or dying tree is leaf discoloration, especially if the problem occurs before the plant undergoes seasonal color changes. Leaf loss is another clear sign of trouble. If part of the tree’s canopy has bare branches, the problem could be a serious insect infestation or root damage.
2. Extensive Bark Cracks or Bark Loss
When trees lose large amounts of bark around their trunks, it usually indicates a health problem. Sometimes trees shed bark naturally. However, tree trunks shouldn’t have substantial loss around their entire circumference.
3. Root Damage
A tree’s root network is how it absorbs water, oxygen, and nutrients from the soil. Impact damage from digging trenches for landscaping or doing construction work too close to the tree can damage the roots. Root rot and fungal growth are also damaging because they prevent the roots from supplying nutrients to the tree.
4. Brittle Branches
When branches break easily and fill the ground beneath the tree’s canopy, it could be due to a disease like branch dieback. When this happens, most of the tree is likely dead.
How To Handle a Dying Tree
Pruning trees is an excellent way to preserve their health, yet cutting off diseased or infested branches isn’t always the best solution. Call a certified arborist immediately if you suspect your tree is dying. After assessing the tree, the expert can recommend treatment or tree removal.
Get Expert Help for Your Sick or Dying Tree in Durham Today
We at Raleighwood Tree Services can help if you’re uncertain of how to tell if a tree is dying. As a one-stop solution for professional tree care, our family-owned and operated company dedicates itself to delivering outstanding services at competitive rates. We specialize in everything from tree removal to tree transplanting in and around Durham, NC.
Count on our skilled specialists to meet all your tree care needs and exceed your expectations. We can answer questions like “Do you need a permit to cut down a tree?” and offer free estimates—call (252) 333-4540 today to speak with a helpful team member.