It’s always sad to find your once beautiful tree dead or dying. In that moment, you’ll want to explore your options. Can a dead tree come back to life? Is there anything you can do to save it?
As Chapel Hill’s trusted tree service, we always receive questions about reviving a dead tree. Unfortunately, resuscitating a deceased tree is not practical. Once a tree is 100% dead, you must start thinking of ways to remove or repurpose it (if it’s safe).
However, it’s possible to revive a dying tree with some life left in it. We’ll cover all the details you need to know in this post.
Top Signs You Have a Partially Dead Tree
Many people asking about restoring life to dead trees often find out that they only have a partially dead tree. Some of the top signs you have a partially dead tree include the following:
- Some buds and green leaves on a few branches
- Limited root damage
- Some bark integrity
- Partially healthy cambium
- Some new leaf growth
If you notice these signs, you can explore ways to bring your tree back to life.
Top Signs You Have a Fully Dead Tree
Your tree is beyond saving if you notice any of the following signs:
- Completely bare. You won’t find any new leaves or buds on the tree, even during the growing season.
- No bark left. Dead trees don’t have any bark left, as everything will peel or fall off.
- Brittle branches. The branches on dead trees are always more brittle and will break with any attempt at bending them.
Bringing a Partially Dead Tree Back to Life
If you’re asking, “Can a dead tree come back to life?” you already have your answer above. However, while rejuvenating a lifeless tree is difficult, bringing back a partially dead tree is always possible. Here’s how you can do it:
Assess the Tree’s Condition
Before you declare your tree as only half-dead, you need to check for all the signs we’ve covered above. If you’re not sure of the tree’s condition, call in a certified arborist to give you an accurate assessment.
During the assessment, don’t forget to evaluate the roots. The tree can’t come back to life if it doesn’t have a healthy root system.
Even if the tree is only partially dead, the arborist may advise against reviving it if it is too far gone to support the process.
Prune the Tree
Prune the tree to remove dead, diseased, or pest-infested parts. Don’t attempt pruning large branches or those high off the ground on your own. It’s best to hire a certified arborist for this part.
Water and Fertilize the Tree
After removing the dead parts of the tree, you can start watering and fertilizing the tree and wait for it to recover.
Hire Licensed Arborists Near You
Are you still asking, “Can a dead tree come back to life?” Do you need more tree health tips? Maybe you’re looking for a company to help remove your dead tree.
Call J&D Tree Pros in Chapel Hill, NC, today at (919) 467-7997 to schedule a consultation.