Trees bring environmental benefits to your property, but when a tree dies, it can become a serious safety hazard. A dead tree is at risk of falling, which can cause property damage and serious injuries. If you suspect that a tree on your property may be dead, it’s crucial to recognize the warning signs and alert the arborist. At Tree Health, we provide expert tree removal in the greater Hicksville, NY area. Here are five signs that a tree is no longer alive.

Brittle or Peeling Bark

When a tree dies, the bark often becomes dry, brittle, and starts peeling away in large chunks. You may also notice deep cracks or splits in the trunk, which indicate structural weakness. If you scrape away a small section of bark and find dry tissue instead of a moist, green layer, it’s a sign that the tree is no longer alive.

Lack of Leaves

A tree that fails to produce leaves during the growing season is likely dead or dying. Deciduous trees should sprout new leaves in the spring, while evergreens should maintain their green needles year-round. If a tree has bare branches during the warm months or its leaves are withering and turning brown out of season, it may no longer be alive. 

Large Dead Branches 

Another clear sign of a dead tree is the presence of numerous dead or broken branches. If a tree has large sections of its canopy that are bare, it may be beyond saving. You can test the health of a branch by bending a smaller twig. If it snaps easily and lacks any green tissue inside, the tree is likely dead. 

A Leaning Trunk and Unstable Base

A tree that has started to lean significantly is often a sign of internal decay or root failure. While some trees naturally grow at an angle, a sudden or worsening lean is cause for concern. Dead trees lose their structural integrity, making them more prone to toppling over, especially during storms or high winds.

Exposed or Decaying Roots

The health of a tree starts at its roots, and if the root system is badly compromised, the tree is unlikely to survive. Exposed roots, especially those that appear rotting or covered in fungi, are a strong indication that the tree is dead or in severe decline. 

Tree Removal in Hicksville, NY

When you need tree services in Hicksville, NY and the surrounding area, contact Tree Health at 516-268-3745. Feel free to give us a call to request an arborist estimate in Hicksville, NY!