For normal property owners, it could be a difficult job to determine whether a tree is alive or dead. The job is even more challenging during the winter season once the majority of trees appear dead. For you to determine the condition of your tree, it would be best to ask a tree expert to come and look at your trees so that they can assess what to do to maintain and keep your trees healthy or whether they need to be removed. Nonetheless, here are some things you need to pay attention to the trees that might be dead:
Do break or scratch test
One of the simplest means of determining the tree’s condition is to do a scratch test. Use a small knife and scratch one of the branches of your tree. When you can see moist and green flesh, it means that your tree is healthy and in great condition. Keep on doing this to other branches in various parts of your tree. If you can see similar results, then you have a healthy tree.
Check for damaged roots
It is not easy to check the damaged roots. But thankfully, other indicators can help you determine whether the roots are damaged. Once the tree is leaning towards one side, it could indicate that the root of the tree isn’t as stable since it compromises the tree’s structure. Moreover, epicormic shoots can be seen at the tree trunk’s base with weak roots.
Development of fungus
Check the trunk of your tree and search for indicators of fungus underneath it. Development of fungus is among the most obvious indicators of a dead tree, which can possibly mean that the trunk’s interior has already decayed and the tree is dead.
Inspect for bare branches
Tree branches need to be dense with leaves during summer or spring, however, when they are not, it could be a sign that it’s damaged. In other instances, only one side of the tree is fine while the other has bare branches. Even though the tree only has an issue on one side, it can still be problematic since the tree will breakdown and be lopsided due to its weight.
Damage on the tree trunk
After checking signs of fungus development, continue to assess the trunk of your tree and see if you can observe vertical cracks in it. When you see any critical damage, it could imply that the tree is in bad condition. When you have a healthy tree, its bark will regrow even though it falls off because of maturity. Your tree could be in danger when it remains smooth and bold.
It could be really difficult to determine whether a tree is dead or not especially during their dormant stage since the majority of trees could seep dead during the winter season. As much as possible, refer to the tree experts’ services to cater to your needs and questions regarding your tree. After you consider to use tree removal service from your chosen tree care service provider, never forget to also use Stump Removal Cincinnati services, if needed.
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