Are you looking at a towering oak or weeping willow in your yard and wondering why half of the branches suddenly look bare and droopy? A half-dead tree is not only an eye sore but can pose safety risks and attract unwanted pests to your property. So, can you bring your decaying structure back to life or is it too far gone?
Below, our team from ArborForce Tree Services, your go-to tree service in Sandy Springs, GA, will explain everything you need to know about restoring your vegetation with tree care best practices.
Understanding What "Half-Dead" Means
When you refer to your plants as "half-dead" this is simply a way to describe their poor condition. We understand that you aren't implying that they're perfectly measured at 50% dead, but rather significantly unwell or dying on only one side.
Half-dead means the plant is only partially decayed and still has some life left. In this scenario, you may still see some growth, a bit of vitality, a few green leaves, and relatively decent structural integrity in certain areas. In the "dead zones," you'll notice all of the typical signs of decay, but don't give up hope yet, as your plant might still be salvageable.
Signs That Your Trees May Be Dying
So, how can you tell when you're dealing with half-dead trees? You want to look for the initial signs of decay, as this allows you to take action before the rotting becomes uncontrollable.
Here are signs of decay to watch out for:
- Unusual looking bark
- Vertical cracking
- Tree fungal infections
- Signs of tree insect infestations
- Discolored, missing, or punctured leaves
- Weak stems, branches, or roots
- Cavities in the trunk
Many factors contribute to decay, including common diseases, pest infestations, poor hydration levels, improper pruning, and more. Tree nutrient deficiency, for example, may arise if the leaves cannot access proper sunlight or if the soil does not offer the right mineral supplies.
Can You Save Your Trees?
Whether you should save the structure or opt for dead tree removal depends on its condition and the type of decay. In many cases, arborists can salvage half-dead trees. Professionals can evaluate soil conditions and test the tree's structural integrity to determine the safest route forward for your property and the vegetation.
Here are some tree maintenance tips that your team may recommend for improving your tree's health moving forward:
- Pruning: Pruning involves strategically trimming certain branches to improve air circulation, sunlight exposure, and structural stability so the canopy can better access nutrients.
- Mulching: Your team may recommend adding mulch around the roots to lock moisture into the topsoil layer while adding more nutrition.
- Soil management: Additional soil management techniques might include aeration and fertilization for improved airflow, drainage, and growth.
Act Fast To Bring Your Yard Back to Life Today – Contact ArborForce Tree Services for Assistance
If you have a half-dead tree that needs saving, call ArborForce Tree Services today at (470) 319-6625 to schedule professional tree care services in Sandy Springs, Georgia.