As tough as your tree is, it is still a living organism and, as such, can get diseased, decay, and eventually die. However, if you don’t know what to look for, you might think all is well, only realizing the issue once the tree topples over.
While quick action will help you avert disaster, you need to first learn how to tell if a tree is rotten inside. Thankfully, we can help you know what signs to look for and who to turn to for reliable tree services in Johnstown, CO.
Common Signs of Internal Tree Decay and Rot
Your tree relies on its vascular system and internal structure to remain alive, healthy, and beautiful. Sadly, when pathogens like fungi and bacteria attack this structure, they can cause internal rot and decay.
The good news is that there are tree services you can schedule to try and safeguard your tree’s longevity and property’s safety, but it all starts with knowing how to tell if a tree is rotten inside.
Want to learn how to detect internal decay in trees? The signs below will help.
Discolored Leaves
Your tree’s leaves will tell you most of what you need to know about your tree’s health. If your tree has discolored leaves or leaves that are wilting and falling off during a season when they shouldn’t be, it could have an internal issue.
Bare, Dead Branches
Are your tree’s branches lacking leaves during the growing season? If so, all is not well. The situation may be a lot more serious if, after breaking a small twig, you find its insides to be dry and brown.
Loose, Damaged, or Missing Bark
Inspecting your tree’s bark will help you identify a hollow or damaged tree trunk, which, sometimes, could point to internal decay. If the bark is peeling off or loose, the layer underneath could be compromised, which will impact the tree’s ability to transport resources.
Fungi
Examine your tree’s trunk and base for any signs of fungi and mushrooms. Since fungi tend to thrive in rotting wood, their presence often indicates tree rot within the trunk.
Root Rot
Unlike the signs above, this one is harder to spot. However, carefully inspecting the soil around the tree can sometimes offer a clue. Extra soggy soil could spell trouble for the health of your tree’s roots.
Also, checking to see if your tree is leaning will help you determine if its roots are weakened, rotting, or dead.
Get Expert Tree Care You Can Trust
Are you concerned about your tree’s health? Spotting signs of a dying tree or learning how to tell if a tree is rotten inside is only the first step. The next step will be reaching out to a certified arborist for professional help.
At Top-Notch Tree Service, we are dedicated to providing expert tree care, safeguarding not just your tree’s longevity but your property’s safety as well. Call us at (970) 556-5000 to schedule a consultation.

