How do you determine if a tree is dormant or dead?

The differentiation between dormant and dead trees can affect the safety of you and your property. Of course, if the tree is dead, you need to remove it. However, during the dormancy period, it may be hard to tell if the tree is alive or not. If you have questions, this post will help you find out if the tree is dead or dormant.

Look for Signs of Life

One of the first things to check is whether the tree has any living buds. Dormant buds will be tight against the branch and maybe a bit faded but still attached. If you snap a thin branch or scratch the bark, you should see green live tissue underneath if the tree is still alive. Another test is to bend one of the smaller branches - living branches will be flexible, while dead ones will snap easily.

Check the Trunk and Branches

Closely inspect the trunk and branches for any cracks, holes, or other damage that may indicate disease or pest infestation. Gently poke at the trunk with a knife or awl - if you encounter green, moist material just beneath the bark, the trunk is still alive. However, if the interior is dry and crumbles easily, it is the tree has died.

Break Open a Branch

Take one of the smaller branches or twigs and make a fresh cut or break it open. The inside should be green and moist if the branch is still alive. A living branch will also have a distinctive smell of fresh plant material. If the interior is brown and dry, with no scent, the branch is dead.

Look for New Growth

As spring approaches, a major sign that a tree is still alive is if new buds begin to form on the branches. These buds will swell and eventually open into new leaves and flowers if the tree is healthy. However, even some dead or dying trees may sprout a few buds towards the base as a last effort before complete death.

Consider the Tree's History

It's important to also take into account the tree's history, age, and recent conditions. Younger trees are less likely to die unexpectedly unless there was a traumatic event or disease. Proper care like mulching, watering, and protecting from damage also plays a role. Trees that were struggling, damaged, or extremely old may have reached the end of their lifespan.

Time Will Tell

In some cases, you may need to "wait and see" by observing the tree over several months to determine if it is truly dead or just extremely slow to show signs of life in spring. With care and patience, many dormant trees will eventually start their seasonal renewal. But if your tree shows no signs of growth by late spring or early summer, it has likely passed away and should be removed.

Conclusion

Identifying if the tree is dead or dormant crucial to safeguard your property. But as the dead trees are a hazard to safety, you need to remove them first.

McKinney Tree Trimmers is the trusted arborist that provides the best care for your trees such as tree removal services and tree risk assessment. You can contact at (469) 712-6624 and or fill in form and will contact you as quickly as possible.

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