We all love our trees — they’re a beautiful and important feature of our gardens, but they can also pose a threat when they start to die. It’s important to keep an eye on them throughout the year so that you can spot any signs that they’re on their way out.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the signs of a dying tree, why a dying tree is so dangerous and what you can do in response.
What are the symptoms of a dying tree?
Always be on the lookout for any of the following indicators that your tree is starting to die:
- Wilting leaves
If the leaves are wilted, discoloured or falling off the tree out of season, it could be a sign that the tree has health issues or is in decline .
- Peeling bark
If the bark is peeling, cracked or falling off in chunks, it could indicate a tree in distress, depending on the species
- Cracked trunk
If the trunk has cracks or cavities, there is a good chance your tree has a compromised structure. You should have the tree checked out as soon as possible to mitigate the risk of it falling over.
- Fungi growth
You may notice mushrooms or fungi growing on the trunk, which is sometimes a sign that the tree is diseased or could be prone to decay. A common Fungi that can affect trees is honey fungus, a fungal disease that attacks the tree at its roots, causing them to rot and eventually die. If you suspect your tree has honey fungus, it’s important to contact a tree surgeon right away so that they can assess the tree and remove it if necessary. To learn more about honey fungus, check out our recent article.
- Dead branches
Dead branches, or branches with no leaves often form as part of a tree’s natural growth cycle, however it can also indicate that the tree has an underlying health issue. They can also pose a danger as they are more likely to fall off.
Is a dying tree dangerous?
A dying tree can be dangerous. If the tree starts to decay, it can pose a serious risk to people and property, including neighbouring property. Even if a tree doesn’t topple over entirely, falling branches can pose a serious hazard to anyone below or nearby the tree or vehicles parked underneath.
A dying tree may also attract pests and insects that can spread to nearby trees and foliage, which in turn can cause further damage or disease of your garden.
What to do if your tree is dying
Don’t hesitate to act if you suspect your tree is dying. Contact a qualified tree surgeon as soon as possible so that they can inspect the tree and determine whether it needs to be removed. Only a professional tree surgeon can safely cut it down. Never attempt to cut down a tree yourself.
In some cases, it may be possible to save the tree through deadwooding, which involves removing dead or dying branches from the tree to improve its overall health and stability. In some cases, it may also be necessary to remove the infected or diseased parts of the tree to prevent the spread of the disease. Find out more about deadwooding here.
If you suspect your tree is dying, contact Artemis Tree Services for professional tree surgery. Our specialists are fully trained and highly experienced. We will visit your site and inspect your tree to establish the issue with your tree and the source. From our findings, we’ll determine the best course of action, whether that’s removing the tree or treating it to improve its health. By taking action quickly, you can protect yourself, your property and the environment.
Contact our team now for award-winning arboricultural services.
