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How to Tell if You Have a Diseased and Dying Tree?

By: Shelby McCullough| Published: May 10, 2018

Trees can withstand wind, rain, and even some hurricane conditions, but trees are living creatures who age and get sick, and eventually die. Whether a tree is diseased or dying isn’t immediately obvious. The tree isn’t going to tell you that it’s sick, and they don’t start turning gray when getting old–so that begs the question: What are the warning signs of a diseased and dying tree? 

There are a few tells that, once learned about, are easy to spot. There are a lot of physical signs that can give clues as to the health condition of your tree. Here are the easiest signs to spot when determining if you have a dying tree on your property.

The Signs of a Dying Tree

A Hole Forms in the Trunk

A hole can develop in a tree’s trunk when a tree’s branch falls. Like a wound on an animal or a human being, the hole left behind leaves the tree’s inside vulnerable to the elements. This open cavity can result in interior decay, but this doesn’t always mean a tree is going to fall over any time soon, but you should keep an eye on it. 

Tree Missing Bark or Has Numerous Cracks

Tree bark is the protective outer shell of many trees. It keeps the excess moisture out and the essential moisture within. Tree bark also insulates the tree from the changes in temperature while also acting as a barrier against insects that might feed on it. On a healthy tree, the bark should be uniform and not contain deep cracks or gaps. If you notice an area on your tree that lacks bark or is indented, the tree may be dying. It might also be more likely to break if pressure is put on that area.

Falling or Weak Branches

When a tree begins losing bits or pieces or entire branches regularly, it may indicate that its branches are weak, it isn’t getting enough nutrients, or it is simply on its last leg. This can be a serious safety issue, so it’s essential to call a professional, like McCullough, if you believe your tree’s falling branches may cause injury or inflict damage.

Thin Leaf Coverage or No Leaves

Leaves are always changing on trees due to changes in season. Thick and green during the summer, orange and falling during the fall, sparse and missing during the winter. Yet if you are seeing no leaves during the summer or very few leaves, then it might be a sign of a sick and dying tree. So make sure the trees on your property are changing according to season.

Rotting Roots

Since they are located underground, rotting roots can be challenging to see. Pay close attention to the growth of mushrooms or other types of fungi around the base of your trees. Fungi that grow on the trunk is a good indication that the tree’s roots are decaying on the inside. Decaying roots can be dangerous as the tree begins to hold to the ground and begin to uproot itself. 

All of these are signs of diseased and dying trees, and they are warning signs for danger to come. This danger can be averted by having professionals, such as McCullough Tree Service, safely remove the dying tree.

McCullough Tree Service

Dying trees are a safety hazard, but McCullough Tree Service is here to help. Our crew of professionals and experts can tell if a tree is dying and use the proper techniques and tools to remove them. 

McCullough Tree Service is an exceptional tree service that serves Orlando and the greater Orlando area. Staffed with dedicated experts with years of experience in the tree service industry, McCullough Tree Service will provide satisfaction with any job.

McCullough Tree Service offers tree removal service. We are a reliable tree company in Central Florida. We specialize in all phases of tree services such as:

  • Tree Trimming
  • Tree Removal
  • Tree Demossing
  • Storm Damage Tree Removal

Now Serving Lake Mary, FL

We’re thrilled to announce that McCullough Tree Service is now offering its expert tree care and maintenance services in the Lake Mary, area. Lake Mary, residents can benefit from our wide range of services, including professional tree trimming, tree removal, stump grinding, and comprehensive storm cleanup. Our team of certified arborists is dedicated to maintaining the health and beauty of your trees, ensuring your landscape remains safe and attractive. Trust us to bring top-notch tree care solutions to your doorstep. For more information or to schedule a consultation, call us today at (407) 734-5854.

Contact us today so we can help you reshape your property.

Shelby McCullough

About The Author: Shelby McCullough

With over two decades of experience in the tree industry, Shelby McCullough is a highly skilled certified arborist and the proprietor of McCullough Tree Service. His unparalleled expertise and profound understanding of trees set him apart in his field.