How to Tell If a Tree Is Dead: 4 Warning Signs

Healthy trees can add beauty and value to a property, but when a tree becomes hazardous, it can pose a serious risk to your home. A compromised tree can cause significant damage during storms or even collapse unexpectedly. Identifying the warning signs early can help you take action before disaster strikes. At Ingram’s Tree Service, we can identify hazardous trees and safely remove them. Here are five signs that a tree near your home may be a danger. Leaning or Unstable Trunk A tree that is noticeably leaning or shifting in its position could be at risk of falling. Although some trees naturally grow at an angle, a sudden lean or an increase in the degree of tilt may indicate root damage or soil instability. If you notice the ground around the base of the tree cracking or lifting, it could mean that the root system is failing to support the tree’s weight. Dead or Dying Branches Large dead branches, especially those overhanging your home, can fall without warning and cause major damage. A tree with multiple dead limbs may be suffering from disease, pest infestation, or internal decay. If a significant portion of the tree appears lifeless and brittle, it may no longer be structurally sound. Cracks or Cavities in the Trunk Deep cracks, holes, or cavities in a tree’s trunk can weaken its overall structure. These issues may be caused by decay, disease, or storm damage. A hollow trunk is especially concerning, as it indicates that the tree’s core strength has been compromised. The arborist can determine whether the damage is severe enough to require removal. Root Damage or Decay A tree’s roots provide stability and nourishment, and when they become damaged, the entire tree is at risk. Construction projects, soil erosion, and fungal infections can all harm root systems. If you notice mushrooms growing at the base of the tree, exposed roots that appear rotten, or a general decline in the tree’s health, it may indicate serious root issues. A tree with compromised roots is more likely to fall, especially during storms. Excessive Leaning After a Storm If a tree suddenly starts leaning after a strong storm, it could be a sign that its roots have been partially uprooted. Even if the tree doesn’t fall immediately, the structural damage may make it unstable. A tree in this condition poses a significant risk, as it may topple with the next heavy wind or rainfall. Tree Removal in High Point, NC When you need tree removal High Point, NC and the surrounding area, contact Ingram’s Tree Service at  (336) 471-4934  . Feel free to give us a call to arrange a free arborist estimate in High Point, NC!

Diseases can weaken trees’ structure, potentially making them unsafe. Recognizing the signs of a diseased tree early can help you take action before the problem worsens. At Ingram’s Tree Service, our local arborists can identify diseased trees and then determine the proper course of action. Here are four signs that your tree may be suffering from a disease. Discolored or Wilting Leaves Healthy leaves are a sign of a thriving tree, so if you notice spotting or wilting, it could indicate a disease. Fungal infections, bacterial diseases, and nutrient deficiencies can cause leaves to turn yellow, brown, or develop unusual patterns. For example, anthracnose is a common fungal disease that can cause brown spots. Unusual Growths/Fungal Presence The presence of fungi, such as mushrooms growing at the base of a tree or on its trunk, can indicate internal decay. Fungal infections weaken the tree’s structure and make it more susceptible to breakage. Cankers, which are sunken or cracked areas on the bark, may also form as a result of fungal or bacterial infections. If you notice any unusual growths on your tree, it’s important to have them evaluated by an arborist. Peeling or Cracked Bark A tree’s bark serves as its protective layer, shielding it from environmental stress and disease. If you notice peeling, cracking, or missing sections of bark, it may indicate a serious problem. Some tree diseases cause bark deterioration as the infection spreads. If large portions of bark are missing or falling off, the tree may be at risk of structural failure. Dead/Dying Branches A healthy tree should have strong, flexible branches that produce leaves in the growing season. If you notice an increasing number of dead or brittle branches, it could be a sign of disease. Sudden dieback, where branches lose leaves and die off quickly, is often caused by infections. If the tree has multiple dead limbs or its crown is thinning, it may not be able to recover without professional intervention. Arborist in High Point, NC When you need an arborist in High Point and the surrounding area, contact Ingram’s Tree Service at  (336) 471-4934  . We provide expertise with both residential and commercial tree care in High Point, NC. Feel free to give us a call to ask for a local arborist estimate!

Maintaining healthy trees is essential for preserving their beauty and ecological benefits. Trees are vulnerable to various diseases, but with proper care and attention, you can reduce the risk of infection and help ensure their well-being. If you have any concerns about your trees’ health, our team at Ingram’s Tree Service can conduct an inspection and determine the proper course of action. Here’s a look at five tips for protecting your trees from diseases. Proper Tree Planting Techniques One of the most effective ways to prevent tree diseases begins with proper planting techniques. Trees should be planted in locations that suit their specific soil, sunlight, and spacing requirements. Planting a tree too deep, in poor soil, or in an area with inadequate drainage can weaken its immune system, making it more susceptible to disease. Ensuring the right conditions from the start helps trees establish strong roots and grow healthily. Regular Pruning and Maintenance Pruning plays a critical role in maintaining tree health and reducing disease risks. Removing dead, damaged, or diseased branches helps prevent the spread of infections and allows for better air circulation through the canopy. However, it’s important to prune trees correctly and at the right time of year to avoid causing stress or exposing fresh wounds to disease pathogens. Monitor for Pests and Symptoms of Disease Pests often act as carriers for tree diseases, and their presence can lead to significant damage if left unchecked. Regularly inspect your trees for signs of disease, such as discolored leaves, unusual growths, or bark abnormalities. Early detection allows you to address problems quickly before they become widespread and cause irreversible damage. Water and Fertilize Properly Providing trees with adequate water and nutrients is essential for maintaining their resilience against diseases. Overwatering or underwatering can weaken a tree's immune system, making it more vulnerable to pathogens. Similarly, over-fertilization can stress a tree and invite disease. It’s important to understand each tree's specific needs and maintain a consistent care routine. Hire a Professional Arborist While many homeowners can handle some basic tree care, professional arborists have the expertise to identify early signs of disease, pests, and structural weaknesses. They can provide specialized treatments to address specific issues. Regular professional inspections help ensure trees remain healthy and reduce the risk of serious problems. Arborist in High Point, NC When you need an arborist in High Point and the surrounding area, contact Ingram’s Tree Service at  (336) 471-4934  . We provide expertise with both residential and commercial tree care in High Point, NC. Feel free to give us a call to ask for a local arborist estimate!

Regular tree pruning is essential for maintaining the health, safety, and beauty of your landscape. While some homeowners may attempt DIY pruning, hiring a professional arborist offers several advantages. Arborists are trained in proper pruning techniques and safety protocols, ensuring that your trees receive the best possible care. At Ingram’s Tree Service, we provide expert tree pruning in the greater High Point, NC area. Here are five benefits of having a professional arborist prune your trees. Promotes Tree Health Proper pruning enhances a tree's overall health by removing dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Left unchecked, these branches can attract pests, spread diseases, and compromise the structural integrity of the tree. A professional arborist understands how to identify and remove problematic branches while promoting healthy growth patterns. By strategically thinning the canopy, they also improve air circulation and sunlight penetration. Enhances Safety Overgrown or poorly maintained trees can pose significant safety risks to your property and the people around it. Weak, dead, or overhanging branches can fall during storms or high winds, causing injuries or damage to roofs and vehicles. A professional arborist will assess your trees for potential hazards and remove branches that could become dangerous. Their expertise ensures that the pruning process is carried out safely, reducing the risk of accidents or property damage. Improves Aesthetic Appeal Well-pruned trees enhance the overall appearance of your landscape, contributing to a clean and well-maintained look. Arborists are skilled in shaping trees to complement your property’s design while maintaining the tree's natural form. Encourages Fruit and Flower Production For fruit trees and flowering species, proper pruning is essential to maximize their yield and beauty. Arborists know how to prune these trees to stimulate growth in the right areas, leading to increased fruit production and more vibrant blooms. By removing unnecessary and overcrowded branches, they allow the tree to focus more energy on fruiting and flowering. Prevents Long-Term Damage Improper pruning can cause long-term damage to your trees, leading to issues like weak branch unions, decay, or even premature death. Arborists are trained to use techniques that prevent harm and promote sustainable growth. They know where and how to make precise cuts that encourage healing and prevent diseases from entering the tree. Professional Tree Pruning in High Point, NC When you need an arborist in High Point and the surrounding area, contact Ingram’s Tree Service at  (336) 471-4934  . Feel free to give us a call to request an arborist estimate in High Point!

When a tree is removed, the stump that’s left behind may seem harmless. However, stumps can actually bring numerous issues that can affect the look, safety, and health of your yard. At Ingram’s Tree Service, we provide expert stump grinding and removal in the greater High Point, NC area. Here are five reasons to remove the stump after cutting down a tree. Prevent New Growth Stumps can lead to new, unwanted growth around your yard. Many trees will send out shoots from the stump or roots, which may turn into saplings that you’ll constantly have to trim back. This can create a hassle as well as a messy appearance in the yard. In some cases, these small saplings can even absorb nutrients intended for nearby plants, impacting the health of your garden. Improve Curb Appeal Tree stumps can look unsightly, especially if they are weathered or surrounded by weeds. Removing the stump will immediately improve the overall appearance of your yard, making it look more spacious and well-maintained. This can be a big plus if you’re considering selling your home, as a neat landscape can significantly boost curb appeal. Increase Safety Tree stumps can be a tripping hazard, especially if you have children who play in the yard. Not only can stumps lead to nasty falls, but they can also damage lawn equipment if struck accidentally. By removing stumps, you’re reducing these risks and creating a safer outdoor space. Prevent Pests Tree stumps are magnets for pests. As they decay, they become prime real estate for termites, ants, and other wood-boring insects. Once these pests establish themselves in a stump, they may venture toward nearby healthy trees, shrubs, or even your home. Removing stumps promptly helps to eliminate a potential nesting site and reduces the chances of pest infestations spreading. Free Up Yard Space Stumps take up valuable space that could be used for other landscaping or gardening purposes. Whether you’re planning to expand your garden or create a new outdoor living space, removing stumps gives you more room to make your vision a reality. It’s a great way to help maximize your yard’s potential. Stump Grinding & Removal in High Point, NC When you need stump removal High Point, NC and the surrounding area, contact Ingram’s Tree Service at  (336) 471-4934  . We provide both residential and commercial arborist services in High Point. Feel free to give us a call to ask for a free arborist estimate in High Point, NC!

Trees add beauty and shade to your property, but sometimes they can pose a serious safety hazard. Recognizing the warning signs of a dangerous tree can help prevent property damage and injuries. At Ingram’s Tree Service, we provide expert hazardous tree removal in the greater High Point, NC area. Here are five signs that a tree may be creating a safety risk and should be addressed promptly. Large Dead Branches One of the most obvious signs that a tree is a safety hazard is the presence of large dead branches. These branches can fall unexpectedly, especially during storms or high winds, putting people, vehicles, and structures at risk. If you notice dead or decaying limbs, it’s important to have them removed by a professional arborist to prevent accidents. Cracks in the Trunk Deep or extensive cracks in the tree’s trunk can indicate structural weakness. A tree with a cracked trunk is more likely to split or collapse, especially under stress from storms or heavy winds. If you see cracks, particularly near the base of the tree, it’s a sign that the tree may no longer be stable and could be a danger to your property. Leaning or Unstable Posture A tree that is leaning significantly can be a major safety concern, particularly if the lean has recently developed or worsened. While some trees naturally grow at an angle, a sudden lean or a tree that is pulling away from the soil may indicate that its roots have been compromised. This instability can lead to the tree falling, especially during adverse weather. Fungal Growth Around the Base Fungal growth around the base of a tree is a warning sign of internal decay. While the tree may look healthy from the outside, fungal growth could suggest that the inside of the tree is rotting. A decayed trunk or root system weakens the tree’s foundation, making it more prone to collapse. Exposed or Damaged Roots Roots provide stability and nourishment to trees. If you notice that a tree has exposed or damaged roots—perhaps due to construction, erosion, or other disturbances—it can increase the likelihood that the tree will become unstable. Without a healthy root system, a tree may be more vulnerable to toppling over in high winds. Tree Removal in High Point, NC When you need tree removal High Point, NC and the surrounding area, contact Ingram’s Tree Service at  (336) 471-4934  . Feel free to give us a call to arrange a free arborist estimate in High Point, NC!

At Ingram’s Tree Service, it’s our mission to earn our customers’ satisfaction by doing top-quality tree work at fair rates, all while providing friendly service. Whether you need some light trimming, or if it’s time to remove numerous big trees, our local arborists will work meticulously to complete the job to the highest standards. And we’re grateful when our customers offer feedback about the work that we did for them. Here’s a look at some of our latest customer reviews. “They did an amazing job, good pricing, great communication and they cleaned up everything. We appreciate the great job y'all done!” — Laura F. “Great family business! All communication with Mark was prompt and when he promised! Showed up on time and performed exactly as needed, fully cleaned up, looked better than when he got here. He had plenty of qualified help, and it appeared they all fully enjoyed their work, and were very proud. I would recommend them highly to anyone I know! — Mike V. “These guys really do a great job! Reasonably priced and very professional.” — Mitch S. “First and foremost, Ingram's Tree Service did a fantastic job! We had a lot off trees covering our home where we couldn't see the road. It was dangerous to turn in and out of our own driveway. After explaining what we were looking for they came and completely transformed our front yard! They absolutely went above and beyond. I will definitely be recommending them for anyone who needs tree work done! Their quote was also the best out of 4 different companies! They were so helpful through the whole process and kept me updated.” — Alivia R. “They took the worry out of a rotten tree for me. Lowered the tree and did no damage to surrounding homes, fences or other trees. They are truly professionals. And the clean up was wonderful.” — Phyllis S. Arborist in High Point, NC When you need an arborist in High Point, NC and the surrounding area, contact Ingram’s Tree Service at  (336) 471-4934  . Feel free to give us a call to ask for a tree services estimate in High Point, NC!

Trees are vital to our environment, offering beauty, shade, and a habitat for wildlife. However, trees can suffer from diseases, pests, and environmental stressors that can lead to their decline. Recognizing the signs of a dying tree early on can help you take the necessary steps to save it or remove it before it becomes a hazard. At Ingram’s Tree Service, our local arborists can accurately identify dying trees. Then, we can safely remove such trees as necessary. Here’s a look at four signs of a dying tree. Brittle or Falling Bark Healthy trees have bark that is firmly attached to the trunk. If you notice that the bark is becoming brittle or peeling off in large chunks, it could be a sign of distress. Missing bark exposes the inner wood of the tree to pests and diseases, accelerating its decline. Look for deep cracks or splits in the bark as well, which can indicate significant health problems. Lack of Foliage One of the most obvious signs of a dying tree is a lack of leaves. During the growing season, a healthy tree should have a full canopy of leaves. If you notice large sections of the tree without foliage, or if the leaves are sparse or discolored, it may indicate that the tree is struggling. A tree that fails to produce leaves in the spring is often an indication of severe distress or death. Dead or Falling Branches Healthy trees will occasionally shed branches, but if you notice an increase in the number of dead or falling branches, it could be a sign that the tree is dying. Dead branches are often brittle and dry. They can pose a significant hazard, especially during storms, as they are more likely to break and fall. Fungal Growth The presence of fungi on the trunk or around the base of the tree can be a sign of internal decay. Fungi feed on decaying wood and are often an indication that the tree's internal structure is compromised. While not all fungal growth means that a tree is dying, it's smart to have a professional arborist assess the situation to determine the tree’s health status. Tree Removal in High Point, NC When you need tree removal in High Point and the surrounding area, contact Ingram’s Tree Service at  (336) 471-4934  . We provide expertise with both residential and commercial tree care in High Point, NC. Feel free to give us a call to request a local arborist estimate!

As peak hurricane seasons approaches, arborists play a crucial role in mitigating potential damage to trees and properties. At Ingram’s Tree Service, our local arborists can come to your property to assess any potential hazards. Then, we can take the necessary steps to reduce the risk of storm damage occurring due to falling trees and branches. This may include removing trees that are in poor health, or just removing parts of the canopy that are prone to breaking off. Here’s a look at five ways that the arborist can help prepare your trees for peak hurricane season. Pruning for Structural Integrity Proper pruning is foundational in preparing trees for hurricanes. Arborists carefully prune to remove weak, dead, or overextended branches that could become hazardous projectiles in high winds. This process may also involve thinning overly dense canopies. Assess Tree Health Before peak hurricane season, arborists can conduct thorough health assessments of trees. Our team at Ingram’s Tree Service will look for signs of disease, pest infestations, or structural weaknesses that compromise tree stability. Addressing these issues early on helps strengthen trees against the impact of severe weather. And, if necessary, diseased/infested trees will be removed. Root Zone Management Healthy roots are essential for tree stability during storms. They anchor trees securely, minimizing the risk of uprooting during hurricanes. Our team can inspect your trees’ root zones to see if there are any serious risks, and then take measures to address them as necessary. Install Supports For particularly vulnerable trees, arborists may install supports before storms arrive. These structural reinforcements help distribute the weight of branches and reduce the risk of breakage. Educate Property Owners Arborists can also play an educational role in preparing properties for hurricanes. Our crew can advise property owners on maintenance practices, such as regular inspections and watering schedules, that promote tree health and resilience. Educated property owners are more likely to prioritize tree care and implement preventive measures effectively. Tree Services in High Point, NC When you need an arborist in High Point, NC and the surrounding area, contact Ingram’sTree Service at  (336) 471-4934  . Feel free to give us a call today to ask for a tree care estimate in High Point, NC!