Signs Your Tree Might Be Dying (And What to Do About It)

Trees are more than just decorative landscaping — they provide shade, clean air, privacy, and a peaceful connection to nature. But like all living things, trees are vulnerable to disease, stress, and aging. The problem is, most people don’t notice a dying tree until it’s too late.

A sick or dying tree isn’t just a threat to your yard’s beauty; it can also pose serious risks to your home, your safety, and even nearby structures if it falls. The good news? If you know what to look for, you can spot the warning signs early and take action to potentially save the tree — or at least prevent damage.

Let’s take a closer look at the signs your tree might be dying and what you can do about each one.

1. The Leaves Are Off-Season or Off-Color

Leaves are often the first indicators of trouble. If your tree is shedding its leaves too early in the year — say, during spring or summer — that’s not normal. Similarly, if the leaves look pale, dry, spotted, or shriveled before fall, your tree might be stressed.

Look for:

• Leaves that are smaller than usual

• Yellow or brown leaves out of season

• Sparse or uneven leaf growth

• Wilting despite regular watering

What to Do:
Try watering the tree deeply once a week, especially in hot or dry conditions. Also, avoid compacting the soil around the roots. If the problem persists, contact a tree care professional to check for disease, pests, or nutrient deficiencies.

2. Cracks, Splits, or Wounds on the Trunk

A tree’s trunk should be strong and uniform. If you see vertical cracks, deep grooves, missing bark, or old wounds that aren’t healing, these could be signs of internal decay.

Why this matters:
A cracked trunk weakens the tree’s structure, increasing the chances of it splitting or falling — especially during storms or strong winds.

What to Do:
Avoid placing stress on the trunk (e.g., lawnmowers, nails, or hammocks). Call an arborist to determine the extent of the damage and whether pruning, bracing, or removal is necessary.

3. Fungal Growth or Mushrooms at the Base

Mushrooms growing near the base of a tree might look harmless, even pretty — but they often signal something much worse: root rot or decay inside the trunk.

Common fungi to watch for:

• Shelf mushrooms (bracket fungi)

• Conks

• White fungal mats

These typically appear when the inner wood is breaking down.

What to Do:
Avoid disturbing the roots, and call a tree expert immediately. Some fungal infections are manageable if caught early, but widespread rot usually means the tree needs to be removed.

4. Dead or Bare Branches in the Canopy

A few dead branches aren’t unusual, especially on older trees. But if a large portion of the canopy is bare while the rest of the tree is in full leaf, that’s a bad sign.

Check for:

• Branches that snap easily and are dry inside

• No leaf growth during the growing season

• Branches with peeling bark or visible insect holes

What to Do:
Dead limbs should be professionally pruned as soon as possible. Not only do they present a falling hazard, but they can also attract pests or spread disease to the rest of the tree.

5. Bark Is Falling Off or Missing

Bark is like a protective shield. If large sections are peeling off or falling away, it could be due to trauma, disease, or pests.

You might also notice:

• Smooth patches with no bark

• Insect tunnels beneath the surface

• A spongy or soft texture underneath

What to Do:
Don’t try to repair the bark yourself — taping or gluing it won’t help. Instead, gently water the tree and protect the area from sun and wind. Call a professional for an in-depth diagnosis.

6. Signs of Pest Infestation

Wood-boring insects and other pests can seriously damage or kill a tree from the inside out. Often, these bugs take advantage of trees already weakened by stress, drought, or disease.

Watch for:

• Tiny holes in the bark (exit holes)

• Piles of sawdust-like material (frass)

• Sticky sap or oozing liquid

• Discolored leaves or wilting

What to Do:
Insect infestations can sometimes be treated with pesticides or beneficial insects, but timing is critical. Contact a certified arborist or tree service to inspect and recommend a treatment plan.

7. A Leaning Tree or Uplifted Roots

A slight lean isn’t always cause for concern — but a sudden tilt, exposed roots, or soil that looks cracked or lifted at the base often means the tree is unstable. This could result from wind damage, poor root structure, or saturated soil after heavy rain.

What to Do:
Do not try to stake or straighten a leaning tree yourself — this can make things worse. Instead, call a professional immediately. They’ll assess the risk and recommend bracing, cabling, or removal if necessary.

When Should You Call a Tree Specialist?

If you notice more than one of the above signs — or if you’re unsure about what’s normal — it’s time to call in an expert. Certified arborists can:

• Diagnose diseases

• Assess risk

• Recommend treatments or safe removal

• Help you decide if the tree can be saved

Why It Matters

Dying trees can become dangerous liabilities. They can fall without warning, damage property, or even injure people or pets. By acting early, you might be able to save the tree or, at the very least, remove it safely before it becomes hazardous.

Final Thoughts

Trees are resilient, but even the strongest ones can suffer from stress, pests, or old age. By learning to recognize the warning signs, you can take timely action — whether that means giving your tree some extra care or calling in a professional for help.

Don’t wait for a storm to test your tree’s strength. If something feels off, trust your instincts — and take a closer look.

Need help diagnosing a sick or dying tree? Contact a local certified arborist or professional tree care service in your area to get expert advice and peace of mind.