tree is dead

How to Tell if a Tree is Dead and Needs to Be Removed

Northeast Tennessee is blessed with abundant trees of numerous species. Jonesborough’s proximity to the Cherokee National Forest and other rich rural environments guarantees plenty of trees for clean air and beautiful landscapes. Could you need professional tree service in Jonesborough, TN, to remove dangerous or problematic dead trees this spring? Let’s find out.

AAA Don’s Tree Service & Stump Removal wants to help Jonesborough property owners recognize dead or stressed trees on their property so they can keep the area safe and pristine. Our tree service and stump removal specialists explain how to tell if a tree has died and needs removal. 

Signs That a Tree is Dead

A cursory examination of your trees will reveal signs indicating their condition. Springtime is the best time to look at your trees and note signs of new life, distress, or if they are dead. Here are some common signs that your tree is dead

  1. No Leaves: One of the most obvious signs that a tree is dead is the absence of leaves. If a tree doesn’t produce leaves as spring progresses, it’s likely dead or dying. 
  2. Brittle Branches: If a tree’s branches are brittle and snap easily, it could be a sign that the tree is dead. Healthy branches should be flexible and bend without breaking. If you’re unsure, gently bend a branch to see if it’s still alive.
  3. Fungus Growth: Fungus growth on a tree’s trunk or branches clearly indicates that the tree is dead or dying. Fungi feed on decaying wood, so if you see mushrooms or other types of fungi growing on the tree, it’s likely that the tree is already dead.
  4. Cracks in the Trunk: Large cracks in a tree’s trunk can also indicate it’s dead or dying. As a tree loses strength, it becomes more susceptible to damage from wind and other forces, which can cause cracks to form.
  5. Peeling Bark: Dead trees will have brittle bark that peels away from the trunk. Cracked and peeling bark and pieces of bark on the ground are sure signs of a dead or dying tree. 

You can perform a simple test to see if portions of the tree are still alive. Use a pocket knife or your fingernail and scratch away the outer layer of a small twig on the tree. If moist, green material is underneath, this portion of the tree is still alive. Repeat this scratch test on different twigs around the tree to determine if more areas are alive or dead. 

Stressed or Diseased Trees 

If your tree is not producing leaves or has other troublesome signs but many limbs pass the scratch test, it may be diseased or stressed and need attention. A professional tree service in Jonesborough, TN, like AAA Don’s Tree Service & Stump Removal, can determine if your tree can be saved or needs removal. Some measures that could save the tree include: 

AAA Don’s Tree Service can assess your tree and recommend actions to save or remove it. 

Why It’s Important to Remove a Dead Tree

Many people believe a dead tree should be left to fall and rot on its own for the environment. This may be acceptable in the forest, but it’s not a good idea on your property. Here’s why: 

  1. Safety: A dead tree can be a safety hazard, especially during storms or high winds. A falling tree can injure someone.
  2. Property Damage: A dead tree can also cause property damage if it falls on your home, car, or other structures on your property.
  3. Pest Infestations: Dead trees are more susceptible to pest infestations, which can spread to other trees on your property.
  4. Curb Appeal: A dead tree can detract from the beauty of your property and decrease its value.

Professional Tree Service

AAA Don’s Tree Service & Stump Removal offers professional tree service in Jonesborough, TN when your trees appear stressed, diseased, or dying. We use various pruning and trimming techniques to help keep trees healthy and can remove dead or problematic trees when necessary. 

We are fully licensed and insured, and our teams are trained to use the latest equipment safely. As the oldest tree service in the area, with over 50 years of serving the Tri-Cities, we have the knowledge and expertise to handle even the most challenging tree removal situations. 

Contact AAA Don’s Tree Service & Stump Removal if your Jonesborough property has trees showing signs of stress, disease, or impending death. We can assess the tree and recommend the proper actions to help keep your trees healthy and your property safe.