How to Tell if a Tree is Dying

If you’re in search of quality tree services on Long Island, look no further than Green Light Tree Service. Their team of professional arborists is dedicated to providing outstanding tree care and is committed to each and every client they serve. From pruning to removal, the experts at Green Light Tree Service will not only meet your needs, but they will go the extra mile to exceed them.

Like any other organism on the planet, trees die. In nature, a dying tree is normal and can actually improve the health of the ecosystem; however, in a yard, a dying tree can pose serious problems. Not only does it detract from the beauty of your landscape, but it can become a risk that can cause serious danger, such as property damage and physical injury.

If you have trees on your property, it’s a wise idea to keep an eye out on their condition. If you suspect that a tree is dying, it’s important to take immediate action and have it removed.

How can you tell if a tree is dying? Here’s a look at some of the telltale signs that indicate a tree is on its last legs and needs to be addressed.


It’s not unusual for trees to lean a bit. Typically, a slight lean isn’t a cause for concern; however, if you notice that a tree on your property is significantly leaning to one side, that’s a sign of trouble.

When trees lean about 15 degrees or more to one side, their health is usually compromised. Trees that were once straight and are leaning heavily to one side are typically the victims of either damaged roots or strong winds. In either case, it’s likely that it will eventually die, if it isn’t dying already.

Decayed Wood

If you notice any signs of decay on a tree, chances are that it is dying. It can be hard to spot decay, as it usually starts inside the tree, but there are some signs of decay that are visible and unmistakable. Large patches of brittle or missing bark could indicate decay, as can dry branches and leaves and holes throughout the branches or trunk. Fungus growth on the bark, branches, or roots are also signs of decay.

Once trees start to decay, they are already dying and cannot be saved. For your safety and the health of your landscape, it’s essential to have a decayed tree removed.


Deadwood is exactly what it sounds like: wood that is dead. The wood appears dry, brittle, and brown in color. When deadwood strikes, the branches or limbs could fall off, putting you and anyone else near the tree in harm’s way. Deadwood is a surefire sign of a dying tree and one that should be removed from your property.

Barren Branches

Are your tree’s branches bare? If so, it’s very likely that it is dying. Coniferous trees (evergreens) should have needles on their branches all year long. Deciduous trees (those that lose their leaves and regrow them) should have leaves during the spring and summer months. If your trees are missing leaves when they should have them or if your evergreens are missing large amounts of needles at any time of the year, there’s a good chance that they areunhealthy and dying.

Cracks in the Trunk

Cracks aren’t always a sign of trouble; however, if a tree has several cracks and those cracks are deep, the structural integrity could be compromised. Furthermore, cracks can welcome in disease and pests that could do extensive damage to the tree.

Inspect the trunk. If you notice any cracks, you should contact a professional arborist to assess the tree and determine whether or not the tree is dying, and if so, if it’s going to survive.

Dead trees not only look unattractive, but more importantly, they can be a liability. Dead branches can break off and fall without any warning, causing property damage or physical harm. If a tree is dying as a result of a disease, the infection can spread to other trees and plants on your property. Dead trees also welcome pests and insects, such as termites, carpenter ants, and even mice and rats.

To protect your property and maintain its aesthetic appeal, if you suspect a tree is dying, contact Green Light Tree Service. Their team of professional arborists will perform a thorough assessment of the tree in question to determine if it’s dying, and if necessary, remove it from your property.