Trees are an essential part of our ecosystem, providing shade, oxygen, and beauty to our surroundings. However, trees can become sick or even die due to various reasons, including disease, pest infestation, or environmental stress. Determining whether a tree is dead or alive is crucial for maintaining the health and safety of your property. Here’s a guide to help you assess the vitality of a tree.

Signs of a healthy tree

1. Leaf condition: healthy trees have vibrant, green leaves during the growing season, with uniform colouring and normal leaf size and shape.

2. Branch flexibility: live branches are pliable and bend without breaking. Gently bend a small twig — if it snaps easily and feels dry, that can indicate a problem.

3. Bark health: a tree with healthy bark has a consistent, intact layer. Peeling or cracked bark can be a sign of distress.

4. New growth: buds and new growth in spring are strong indicators of a live tree.

Signs of a dying or dead tree

1. Lack of leaves: a tree that fails to produce leaves, or has significant leaf loss without recovery, may be dying or dead.

2. Brittle branches: dead branches become brittle and break easily.

3. Discoloured or fungal growth: fungi growing at the base or on the trunk often indicate internal decay.

4. Bark abnormalities: dead trees often have loose or missing bark, with deep cracks or cavities in the trunk.

5. Absence of buds: no budding by late spring is a red flag.

When to call a professional

If you’re uncertain about the health of your tree or notice severe signs of distress, it’s wise to consult a certified arborist. We have the expertise to diagnose tree health issues and recommend appropriate action — whether that’s treatment, pruning or removal.