Knowing how to properly care for the trees on your property is key when maintaining a safe environment. A dying tree is a danger to the surrounding buildings, power lines, pedestrians and more; knowing how to spot a dying tree easily can save you from damages. Here are 3 signs a tree is dying.
Trunk Damage
When assessing the health of your tree, start at the trunk! If the damage to a tree’s trunk is sufficient enough, it compromises the future of the tree. Look for any cracks in the trunk and check the bark; a lack of bark may be a tell-tale sign that your tree is not so healthy. Though it is normal for a tree’s bark to fall off as it ages, it’s not a good sign if the bark won’t grow back.
Damaged Roots

Tree roots can cause thousands of dollars in damage to sewer lines. Prevent plumbing problems by following these tree-planting tips.
via Popular Mechanics
A healthy root system is essential for tree healthy. The roots are where water and nutrients are absorbed and distributed throughout the tree. If your tree’s roots aren’t visible, call Westchester Tree Life to assist in your tree care evaluation; we can help spot damage properly.

A leaning tree; via CBS New York
Is your tree leaning? A noticeable lean can be a sign of serious root damage. Leaning trees are a damage to their surroundings, especially during the stress of winter storms. As ice bears down and wind pushes, the tree can give way and land on a nearby home, business, car or person.
Bare Branches
If you are concerned a tree on your property is dying, check it’s branches come springtime. A tree which is not producing leaves is a warning sign. If you notice that only one side of your tree has dead or dying branches, you may want to have a professional arborist come to check for serious trunk and root damage.
If you are concerned a tree on your property is dead or dying, call a professional arborist from Westchester Tree Life today at (914) 238-0069. You can also request a consultation using our online form here.
Thanks for mentioning that cracks in a tree’s trunk might mean that it’s dying. We have a large oak in our front yard, and I noticed that there are large cracks in the bark. Maybe I should have a tree removal service remove the oak before it starts to look bad.
That makes sense that a lack of bark is a bad sign. Bark helps protect trees like skin does for humans. If it’s missing then something is wrong.
One of the larger tree on my property is leaning, but the leaves still look good. Does that mean it’s dying and should I check for any other signs?