How to Tell If a Tree Is Dead

Short answer: Look for no leaves in season, bark falling off, brittle twigs that snap instead of bending, and dry brown wood under the bark. Fungus at the base is another warning sign.

The Scratch Test

Use your thumbnail or a small knife to scratch a little bark off a young twig. Green, moist wood underneath means that part is alive. Dry and brown means it’s dead. Try a few twigs in different parts of the tree, since one dead branch doesn’t mean a dead tree.

Other Signs

• No leaves in spring or summer, or leaves only on a few branches.
• Bark peeling away in large sheets.
• Twigs that snap cleanly instead of bending.
• Mushrooms or fungus on the trunk or roots.
• Woodpecker and insect damage. On ash trees, look for D-shaped holes. See ash trees.

Dead, or Just Dormant?

In early spring, some trees leaf out later than others. Give it time before deciding. The scratch test is the best check.

What to Do Next

A dead tree gets more brittle over time, so it’s worth dealing with before branches start falling. See dead tree removal, or call us and we’ll look at it with you for free.