Minnesota has some brutally long winters, so when spring finally arrives, we cherish every moment of blooming beauty. That’s why it can be so devastating when you notice your favorite tree refusing to wake up with everything else.
In this blog post, you’ll learn how to tell if your tree is dying, steps you can take to revive it, and when it’s time to call Northern Tree and Landscaping Service, LLC for the best tree services in Prior Lake, MN.
Discolored or Missing Leaves
Leaf discoloration means that your tree isn’t able to internally move water and nutrients to sustain growth. If you notice yellow or brown patches during the growing season, or a tree dripping sap from the trunk, it means that something is blocking the flow of nutrients to the limbs or roots.
If one side of the tree looks normal, and the other side looks dead, a disease may have split the tree’s nutrient supply system.
Dead Branches That Fall During Calm Weather
If you notice dead branches falling during calm weather, disease or decay has already reached the interior structure of your tree. Tree limbs snap clean off when moisture and nutrients no longer flow to every section.
If you’re not sure how to tell if your tree is dying, start by bending a small twig. If it’s bendy and green, it’s alive. If it snaps clean in half, that branch is dead.
Peeling Bark or Bare Spots on the Trunk
If you notice peeling bark on your favorite tree, it means the tree has permanently sealed off that section of the trunk or branch to protect what’s still alive. When bark falls off in large sheets, the cambium layer underneath is either dehydrated or infected.
Fungal Growth or Cracks in the Trunk
Fungal growth can be beautiful, but not when it’s killing a beautiful tree in your yard. If you see mushrooms or soft growth around the base, the mycelium has likely already spread into the tree’s internal structure via cracks in the trunk.
When learning how to tell if a tree is dying, take time to study which mushroom species target which trees.
Mushy Soil or a Leaning Base
Soft soil, mushrooms near the base, or a sudden shift in posture all point to root system collapse. Landscaping equipment, erosion, or heavy rain often cause root damage that leads to leaning. If you notice sudden changes at the base of your tree, schedule removal with Northern Tree and Landscaping Service right away.
Schedule a Tree Inspection Today With Northern Tree and Landscaping Service, LLC
Trust us, you don’t want to find out how to tell if your tree is dying by watching it fall on your roof, car, or fence. We’ve seen the kind of damage a failed trunk or limb can cause, and it’s never worth the risk. A quick inspection from our team could catch the warning signs early, prevent collapse, and protect everything around it.
Call Northern Tree and Landscaping Service, LLC at (612) 919-7322 to schedule a full diagnosis or safe removal. Contact us today to rescue your property!

