What Are the Signs of a Dying or Diseased Tree?
How to Spot Tree Health Problems Before It’s Too Late
Trees are a beautiful and valuable part of your landscape, but just like any living thing, they can become sick or start to die over time. Recognizing the early signs of a dying or diseased tree can help you act quickly—potentially saving the tree or protecting your property from falling limbs or other hazards.
At Green Heritage Tree Services Ltd, we help home and property owners throughout the Halifax Regional Municipality and surrounding areas keep their trees healthy and safe. Here’s what to look out for:
🍂 1. Dead or Falling Branches
One of the most obvious signs a tree is struggling is frequent falling branches or large limbs that appear dry and brittle. Dead branches can pose a serious safety risk and may indicate internal decay or disease.
Tip: Look up into the canopy. Are there entire sections of the tree with no leaves or needles?
🍃 2. Discolored or Wilting Leaves
Leaves that are yellowing, browning, or falling prematurely can be a sign of stress, nutrient deficiency, pest damage, or disease. Watch for unusual spots, holes, or curling.
Nova Scotia Tip: Discoloration in early spring or summer (outside of fall) can be a red flag.
🧱 3. Cracked or Peeling Bark
Healthy bark protects a tree like skin protects a human. Loose, peeling, or cracking bark, especially when combined with other symptoms, may indicate a dying tree.
Bonus tip: Try the “scratch test.” Gently scrape away a bit of bark with your fingernail. If the layer underneath is brown and dry, the tree may be dead.
🐛 4. Signs of Pest Infestation
Holes in the bark, sawdust piles, sappy oozing, or the presence of boring insects are often indicators of deeper internal damage. Some pests, like the emerald ash borer, are invasive and deadly to native trees.
Watch for: Woodpecker activity—this can be a sign they’re feeding on burrowing pests.
🪵 5. Fungal Growth or Rot
Mushrooms or fungal conks growing at the base of a tree or on the trunk can signal internal decay. Root rot often shows up as a slow, general decline in the tree’s overall health.
🌱 6. Leaning or Unstable Structure
A tree that begins to lean suddenly or has exposed roots may have a compromised structure. High winds or heavy rains in Nova Scotia can worsen the issue quickly.
Important: If your tree is leaning near a home, power line, or driveway, contact a Certified Arborist immediately.
Why Early Detection Matters
Catching the signs of disease or decay early can prevent:
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Costly removals
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Damage to homes or vehicles
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Injury from falling branches
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The spread of disease to nearby trees
Need a Tree Health Assessment in Nova Scotia?
At Green Heritage Tree Services Ltd, we’re proud to offer professional tree inspections, disease diagnosis, and safe removal services if needed. Our Certified Arborist can assess your tree’s health and provide expert recommendations to help you protect your property and the environment.
📞 Call us today for a consultation or emergency tree care service.
