How to Save a Dying Tree: 6 Tips to Try

Trees are remarkable: They provide us with food and shade, purify the air, and give us oxygen to breathe. That’s why learning how to save a dying tree is essential to you and the ecosystem. Whether it’s a beloved fruit tree or a large native species that has adorned your yard for years, use these six tips to bring it back to life.

1. Determine If The Tree Is Dying

Many things can cause a tree to die, and the first thing you need to do is determine if the tree is actually dying. There are quite a few telltale signs to watch out for, and the faster you address the issue, the better the chance you will have at saving the tree. 

Here are some warning signs to keep an eye out for:

• Root Damage or Exposed Roots: Exposed roots don’t mean a tree is dying. But when tree roots break the surface of the ground, they’re more vulnerable to damage. Check them regularly to ensure they don’t get damaged by lawn equipment or machinery, which can make the tree more susceptible to diseases and pests.

• Fungus or Rotting Wood: While mushrooms are nature's recyclers, they can be a sign of poor tree health and can cause the tree to rot. Certain types of fungi can enter through tree wounds and decay the tree from the inside out. 

• Tree Wounds: In simple terms, a tree’s bark is basically its skin, and severe wounds can cause the tree to die. Weather, animals, pests, and damage from lawn equipment or improper pruning can all cause tree wounds. 

• Discolored, Spotted, or Dead Leaves: Many trees change colors and lose their leaves during the fall season. However, if you notice your tree has discolored, spotted, or dead leaves during the spring or summer, this could be a sign your tree is dying. 

• Peeling or Missing Bark: Trees do shed bark as part of the growing process. However, if you notice your tree has significant sections of missing bark, you should investigate further. Fungus and boring insects can cause bark to peel and eventually kill a tree. 

• Pests or Termites: Bark beetles, emerald ash borers, and termites are a few of the many types of pests that can damage and kill trees. Inspect the tree for things such as holes, mud tubes, or even visual pests to determine if it has an infestation.

2. Call In An Arborist to Identify The Problem

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Hiring an arborist near you is the best way to save a dying tree. Arborists are trained professionals who specialize in tree care. 

You can look for signs of a dying tree, but an arborist can identify what the problem is and determine if the tree is salvageable or not. This can save you time, effort, and even protect your other trees from infectious diseases. 

The cost will vary significantly depending on the treatment that’s needed, but it typically costs between $250-$2,500 to hire an arborist. You may be able to hire them to consult on how to save a dying tree yourself, but it will depend on what the problem is and whether you will be able to take on the task or not. 

3. Fix Moisture Issues

Trees are very resilient, but if they are over- or under-watered, it can cause them to die. First, you will need to identify whether your tree is dehydrated or overhydrated so you will know how to fix the issue. 

If your tree is showing signs of not getting enough water, then you can add a layer of soil at the base of the tree and install a drip line hose for regular watering. Keep in mind that you will need to adjust how often you water depending on how much it rains. 

If your tree is showing signs of being overwatered, then you will need to take steps to reduce the amount of water it is getting. In addition to cutting back on how often you water the tree, you may need to tackle issues such as pooling water in your yard, which can be addressed by aerating your yard (be careful not to damage tree roots) or hiring a professional landscaper to grade the lawn for better drainage.

4. Prune The Tree Properly

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Tree pruning is essential to their growth and health. Pruning can also help treat disease and prevent it from spreading. And proper pruning can reduce the risk of safety hazards and help keep the tree from getting damaged during inclement weather. 

However, pruning can damage a tree if not done correctly. If you are inexperienced with tree pruning, consider hiring a professional tree trimming company to do the job for you. 

5. Add Mulch to Nourish The Soil

Mulching around a tree can help retain moisture and nourish the soil. But you need to mulch correctly: Adding too much mulch or piling it up around the base of the tree can further harm the tree. 

When laying the mulch down, leave about 3 to 6 inches of space around the tree trunk. The mulch should be between 1 to 4 inches deep, depending on the climate and the type of mulch you use. 

6. Treat With Fertilizer

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Before you try treating your dying tree with fertilizer, it’s best to test the soil’s nutrient levels first. This way, you can ensure you apply the correct fertilizer. You need to take precautions when applying fertilizer because it can damage the tree if you do not use it correctly. Too much can actually burn the roots, so you want to make sure you don’t over-fertilize.