Depending on the time of year and inconsistent temperatures, it’s not uncommon for homeowners and commercial business owners alike to be confused about whether or not their tree is dead or dormant. After all, they almost look identical—and even a little sad.

But don’t worry. Determining whether or not your tree is alive doesn’t have to be rocket science.

6 Telltale Signs That Your Tree May Be Dead or Dormant

1. There are buds — If you look closer at your tree and still see tiny buds forming on the branches and limbs, it’s a clear sign that your tree is alive and well. If it’s completely barren, you likely have a dead tree on your hands.
2. Bendable branches — Branches on a healthy but dormant tree should bend under pressure. If they look brittle and snap easily, your question of whether it’s dead or dormant is answered. This is especially true if the bark underneath is dry instead of slightly damp.
3. Decaying roots —Healthy roots provide your tree with a stable foundation and give it access to proper nutrients and water year-round. If you notice the tree roots are diseased and decomposing, your tree is either dead or dangerously close to being dead.
4. Look at the tree trunk — Tree trunks come in all shapes and sizes. Those with visible signs of cracks, splits, wounds, and decay are likely dead rather than dormant. To be sure, have a professional tree service inspect your tree immediately.
5. What the bark looks like — We’ve seen countless examples of trees shedding their bark. Sometimes, that’s a good thing. Other times, it’s a sign that your tree is struggling big time and may need removal. We won’t know what’s happening with your specific tree until we can come out and give an honest assessment.
6. There are insects and signs of disease — Tree fungus is a dangerous disease that attacks a tree’s structural integrity and slowly causes it to decay and die. The same can be said for insects, which are known for feasting on otherwise healthy trees year-round. If this is allowed to happen long enough, there’s a good chance the tree could be dead rather than dormant.

How Can Clean Edge Tree Service Help?

If you aren’t sure if your tree is dead or dormant, it’s best to contact a tree service professional. Arborists know trees and can give you an honest assessment of what should happen next. If the tree needs to be removed, Clean Edge Tree Service & Removal in Denton, TX, are experts in quality, efficient, and safe large and dangerous tree removal—no matter if it’s a 10-foot tree next to your garage or a tree that needs to be removed for land-clearing purposes. 

Every cut we make has a purpose, and we pride ourselves on offering every tree service under one roof.

Call Clean Edge Tree Service & Removal Today!

We know you have options regarding your tree service and removal needs. Clean Edge Tree Service & Removal in Denton, TX, is family-owned and operated and has served Denton and surrounding areas for over a decade. More importantly, we have the equipment, experience, and technical know-how to safely and efficiently handle any tree and residential or commercial scenario — from a downed tree in the middle of a storm to trimming a few branches, stump grinding, and removing trees that tower 83 feet in the air.

There isn’t a tree in Denton that we can’t handle. Call Clean Edge Tree Service & Removal today!