A dying tree can be very difficult to deal with. One of the primary Texas tree services offered by us is to identify the signs of decay and to take steps to reverse them. There is nothing worse than seeing a tree you cared for your whole life die. Sometimes there is nothing you can do and would need to call in a tree removal service. We usually take stock of a situation and a tree’s condition to ascertain whether removal is necessary or not.
These are some of the signs that your tree is dying.
Signs on Tree Trunk
Tree trunk may not give signs immediately, unless the tree was hit by lightning or diseased by pests. Tree service professionals generally look for vertical cracks on the bark. They also observe signs of missing bark. It is normal for the tree to have patches in certain species, such as Eucalyptus. But, missing bark can point to major issues if present in oaks and other trees.
Tree care professionals also look for areas of dead bark and cankers. It can be difficult to find cankers on your own since it takes a trained eye. However, you can scratch the outer trunk and check whether the inner layers are brown or green. Anything other than a vibrant healthy green reflects a dying tree.
Signs on Tree Branches
The branches usually give clear and early signs of decay. For instance, a tree that loses all its foliage or is not green during season is obviously under stress. The tree may die soon if it is not helped in time. Some trees will hold on to dead leaves if it is not growing new ones. Professional arborists tend to look for brown, grey, and dead leaves stuck to branches.
They would also look at the joint connecting the branch to the tree closely. They should be sturdy and strong. Weak branches indicate decay. Brittle and brown leaves during growing season also indicate decay.
Signs on Damaged Roots
Damaged roots can be very difficult to notice. You need to check whether any construction projects or digging took place nearby. These generally result in hurting the root system. The same holds true for underground line work.
We may need to look at the tree as a whole to determine whether it has developed any lean. You would need to identify whether the lean is recent or not. Small branches from the base of the trunk are also signs of damage. Many people confuse it with a robust and healthy tree. In certain special cases, a portion of the roots may be dug up as part of our Texas tree services to check whether they are slimy or not.