Is My Tree Dead?

Published On: March 30th, 20222.8 min read

Whether it’s for the shade they provide or their beauty, trees are a staple in many backyards. But even the strongest trees will begin to decline, despite their impressive lifespan.

So, how do you find the answer to the infamous question, “Is my tree dead?”? If you’re looking for the answer to the above question, you’ve come to the right place. Everything you need to know about identifying a dead tree is waiting below.

Is My Tree Dead?: Signs Tree is Dead/Dying

Before and after your tree dies, its state will show through its appearance. Sometimes the signs are easy enough to notice on your own, but smaller indicators will stay hidden to untrained eyes. In other words, you’ll need to know what to look for to see it.

Learning about the signs of a dying tree may seem useless, but this knowledge carries a few benefits. Early identification of a dying tree increases your chances of saving it, and knowing the look of a stressed tree could prevent serious problems for any homeowner.

1. Leaning

Have you noticed over time your tree is leaning more and more? This is never a good indication. Sometimes, bending is a sign of wind-related damage, meaning the tree can be corrected if caught early enough. Unfortunately, a progressively worsening lean could also be the result of root rot/damage, a potentially fatal tree problem.

In the case of root damage, the tree has to be removed to prevent potential harm.

2. Premature Leaf Changes 

During the fall seasons, it is completely normal for your tree’s leaves to change color. But color changes taking place during the spring/summer months are not normal. Premature leaf changes are a sign that your tree is struggling.

There are a variety of reasons that a tree may lose its leaves prior to fall: They range from insect and disease infestation, drought, lack of soil moisture, and more. If the damage is not severe, you can take action to save the tree. But if the leaf drop occurs multiple years in a row or for an extended period of time, you may need to consider removal.  The leaves are how a tree makes its nutrients and without them, the tree will suffer.

3. Fungi Growth

Another common indicator of a dead or declining tree is the presence of fungi growth. If you begin to notice fungi or mold inside your tree’s fallen branches or at its base, your tree may not be doing well. Fungi feed on decaying matter and colonize trees that are already strained.

4. Peeling Bark

Bark acts as a suit of armor for trees, meaning your tree will not live long without it. If your tree is shedding its bark, this could be a sign of insect infestation or disease. Either way, you will need to act quickly to save your tree and those around it.

In Need of Tree Removal Services? 

Now that you can answer the question, “Is my tree dead?” it’s time to decide what to do about it.  If you’ve determined that your tree is dead and need help with tree removal, consider our services at Arbortech. We are an Eastern Connecticut tree service company trained in tree preservation and removal.

Click here to learn more about our services, read client testimonials, or request an estimate.

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greg v
greg v
2023-10-25
Great team and very professional, they efficiently took down some large older trees that were dying and hanging over my house and in very difficult positions while also requiring them to manage traffic, I will definitely use them again in the future
Peter Kelly
Peter Kelly
2023-10-16
I would give 6 Stars if I could. This is the third time I've used Justin and his crew of Arbortech. He and his crew go above and beyond in the services they provide. They do all, and then some, of what I contracted them to do. His crew is personable, professional, and tidy. They left my place cleaner than when they got here. Can't say enough. Use them. You won't be disappointed.
Tracy Cole
Tracy Cole
2023-10-13
Great job…nice clean up!! Will use them again!!!
Roger Leardi
Roger Leardi
2023-10-12
These guys are professionals. They came when they said they would, they were quick, neat and professional. They did exactly what they quoted. The crew was polite and friendly. I was super pleased with the service and would highly recommend them if you need tree service.
Venus Dickson
Venus Dickson
2023-09-28
Arbor tech and their crew were amazing!!! Not only did I not have to wait a long time to schedule the work, but they also came on time the day of. The crew were friendly, professional and helpful. They went above and beyond what I expected them to do. They even cleaned up afterwards as if they weren’t even there. The price I was quoted was reasonable and they did not charge more than was quoted. The whole experience was fantastic. I will be using them in the future. I highly recommend them! You will not be disappointed.
Pamela Hayden
Pamela Hayden
2023-09-22
Absolutely the very best. They arrived on time. The yard was taken care of and left in perfect shape. They did everything we asked ……we will definitely be using them again. The gentlemen doing the job were pleasant and professional.
Richard Roy
Richard Roy
2023-09-22
All aspects of our experience with Arbortech were beyond expectation (5+ stars at all levels). From the scheduling process and ongoing coordination and discussions with Lindsey to the onsite discussions with Justin, and finally with the crew while the work was being done, we couldn't be happier. They listened, they provided insight to our project while remaining very sensitive to our privacy concerns with the trimming of our pines. In an evolving world where a lot of customer care seems to have vanished, we are grateful we found a company where it seems to be a core component of their values. HIGHLY RECOMMEND
Edward Figiela
Edward Figiela
2023-09-11
That are a great company to work with would recommend them to all!!
Greer Cunningham
Greer Cunningham
2023-09-09
From start to finish our experience with Arbortech was wonderful! Lindsey was extremely responsive and worked with us to set up both the estimate and schedule the work. She even communicated with our neighbor to coordinate the timing as we needed to use their driveway for the job. Justin came promptly to look at our trees, explained our options in a very clear an professional way, and gave us an extremely fair estimate. The guys who came and did the work did a really great job and cleaned up everything afterwards, so we (and our neighbor) were very happy. They were also very friendly and gracious even though they were working during a crazy heat wave- they appreciated the popsicles I gave them! I highly recommend Arbortech Tree Service!