A common reason why tree removal is necessary is because of a dead or dying tree. Leaving the tree would create an eyesore in your yard and potentially become a home for pests, spread the disease that killed the tree to other plants, or cause damage or injury as it rots and falls apart. Learn below the signs of an ailing tree so that you know the right time to schedule a tree contractor to remove it.

5 Signs a Tree is Dead and Must Be Removed

1. Naked and Falling Branches 

There’s no cause for alarm if a tree’s branches are bare during the winter. However, if the branches aren’t growing any foliage during the spring and summer—and especially if the branches are falling off the tree—then it’s either ailing or dead. If half the tree is still producing leaves, you may nevertheless need to remove it, or the resulting uneven weight could cause it to collapse.

2. Leaf Discoloration

During the warmer months, leaves on a healthy tree should retain their usual color. If the tree is sick, however, the leaves may create yellow or red spots, an indication of plant rust. Reddish-purple spots, along with a film of grayish powder, may point to hostile fungi. Leaves that appear withered and scorched suggest the tree is dying of fire blight. 

3. Abnormal Roots

If branches appear to be sticking out of the ground near the trunk, these are epicormic shoots. If the tree is also leaning heavily to one side, it was probably fatally damaged by a storm, a pruning mishap, or machinery that may have passed through. Tree removal may be necessary.

4. Trunk is Damaged

The tree should be completely covered in bark and shielding the smooth underpart. Deep cracks, splits, patches, cankers, and rotted-out holes are all signs that the tree is ailing. To be sure, scratch off some bark and examine the layer beneath it. Moisture and greenness mean that the tree is still alive, but brownness and dryness prove that it’s dead. 

5. Fungi On or Around the Trunk

Since cool, rotted, and moist spaces are ideal for fungal growth, you can tell whether your tree is dead if you see clusters of mushrooms or other fungi growing around the base of the trunk or wood ears on its surface. They may also line the branches and thrive inside hollows. Sometimes, the fungi itself could be the cause of death.

If you need tree removal services, 4 Seasons Tree Service of Newburgh, NY, can provide them. They also offer lot clearing services if you need multiple trees removed. They can help with tree trimming and pruning for your healthy trees. Call them today at (845) 565-8600 or message them online to schedule their services.