August 5, 2025
Some trees show clear signs of distress, while others decline quietly over time. Unfortunately, many homeowners don’t recognize a sick tree until a limb falls or the trunk begins to lean, by then, the damage may already be done.
If you’ve ever looked at a tree and thought, “Something doesn’t look right,” your instincts were probably correct. Below are 7 warning signs of a sick tree, what they could mean, and the steps you can take to protect your property.
1. Leaves Falling Early (And Not in Fall)
When a tree drops leaves out of season, it’s usually a sign of trouble. Trees rely on their leaves for energy, and dropping them early can signal stress or disease.
What to watch:
- Yellowing leaves in spring or summer
- Bare patches on just one side of the tree
What to do: Take pictures. Compare it to last year if you can. Call in a pro if it keeps getting worse.
2. Trunk Cracks or Deep Splits
Your tree’s trunk should look strong and intact. If you notice deep splits, cracks, or bulges, that’s a red flag.
Look closely for:
- Bark that’s peeling off in strips
- A sour or musty smell near a split
Why it matters: Cracks can signal internal rot. A structurally weak tree can fall without warning.
3. More Than One Dead Branch
Trees shed small twigs occasionally. But when large limbs go bare or multiple branches die off, it points to a deeper issue.
Take note of:
- Several bare branches near the top
- Twigs that break cleanly and feel dry inside
Possible causes: Root damage, fungal disease, or lack of water reaching the canopy.
4. Fungus at the Bottom
If mushrooms or fungus are growing on your tree’s trunk or around its roots, that’s more than a cosmetic issue.
Pay attention to:
- Large, flat shelf mushrooms near the base
- Soft or spongy spots on the bark
Why it’s serious: Fungi feed on decaying wood. That often means rot has already set in beneath the surface.
5. A Tree That Starts Leaning
Trees don’t lean unless something is wrong. Even a slight lean can mean the roots are shifting or worse, failing.
Check for:
- Soil lifting or cracking near the base
- Exposed roots that weren’t visible before
Act quickly: Leaning trees can fall, especially after heavy rain or wind.
6. Canopy Is Thinner Than It Used to Be
You know what your trees normally look like. If the leaves are looking thin or discolored this year, that’s a warning.
Watch for:
- Patchy areas in the canopy
- Leaves that are pale, curled, or dry
Why it happens: Disease, nutrient issues, or pests can all weaken the canopy over time.
7. Tiny Holes or Sawdust at the Base
Borer insects are small, but the damage they cause isn’t. If you see small holes in the bark or dust around the base, insects may be attacking from the inside.
What you might see:
- Pin-sized holes grouped close together
- Fine sawdust at the base of the tree
Florida culprits include: Beetles, termites, and carpenter ants.
What to Do if You Spot a Problem
- Don’t ignore it. Small signs turn into big problems fast.
- Document the changes. Take photos weekly if needed.
- Avoid trimming it yourself. Cutting the wrong area can make things worse.
- Contact a tree expert. They’ll check the roots, trunk, and canopy for deeper issues.
How to Be a Better Tree Caretaker
Even if your tree looks fine right now, staying proactive is the key to avoiding problems later. Think of your trees the same way you’d think of a roof, plumbing, or HVAC system it pays to do regular checkups before something breaks.
Simple Habits That Make a Big Difference:
- Walk your yard monthly and actually look at each tree, top to bottom
- Clear out old mulch and leaves that trap moisture at the base
- Keep lawn equipment from banging or scraping the bark
- Don’t plant new shrubs too close trees need breathing space
- Avoid piling soil over the root flare (that swollen-looking base is supposed to be visible)
When in Doubt, Take Photos
Trees don’t change overnight. But because they grow slowly, we often don’t notice what’s changing. If you see anything odd wilting, holes, cracked bark, yellowing take a picture now. Then compare it again in a week or a month. If it’s worse, that’s your signal.
Talk to a Real Tree Expert
Not a neighbor, not a lawn guy, not a random online forum. Someone who works with trees every day. Most tree surgeons are happy to give advice, even if it’s just a quick look or a call.
Being a good tree owner isn’t about knowing everything. It’s about noticing when something seems off and asking the right person before it gets worse.
FAQs: Real Questions from Homeowners
Can a tree be sick and still have green leaves?
Yes. Many tree diseases work from the inside out. A tree might look fine until the structure is already weakened.
Should I remove mushrooms myself?
No. Removing fungus doesn’t fix the problem underneath. It can also spread spores if not handled correctly.
If one branch dies, is that normal?
One small dead branch is okay. But multiple dead limbs, especially high in the canopy, can mean something’s seriously wrong.
Can leaning trees be fixed?
Sometimes. If caught early, cables or braces may help. But in many cases, a leaning tree needs to be removed for safety.
How often should I check my trees?
A quick monthly look is great. After storms, check again for cracks, leaning, or broken limbs.
Is professional tree inspection worth it?
Absolutely. A 30-minute visit can prevent thousands in damage or emergency removal.
Final Thoughts: Sick Trees Don’t Speak, But They Do Send Signals
Healthy trees stand tall without much fuss. A sick tree, however, often reveals itself through subtle signs: peeling bark, early leaf drop, or a sudden shift in growth.
If something doesn’t look or feel right, trust your instincts. Tree health problems are far easier (and more cost-effective) to manage when caught early. And when in doubt, consulting a certified arborist can make all the difference.
Protect your landscape, stay alert to the warning signs, and give your trees the care they need to thrive long-term.
