Trees are a beautiful and valuable part of any property, but they don’t last forever. Over time, disease, age, pests, or storm damage can weaken even the strongest-looking tree. Knowing how to spot the signs of a dying or dangerous tree could save you from property damage—or worse.

At Big Foot Tree Service, we help homeowners and business owners throughout Northern New Jersey identify and address tree hazards before they turn into emergencies. Here’s how to recognize when a tree may no longer be safe to keep standing.

Warning Signs Your Tree May Be Dying or Unsafe

Large, Dead Branches

Dead limbs are a major red flag. If you notice branches with no leaves, peeling bark, or breakage even on calm days, the tree may be suffering from internal decay. These branches can fall without warning, posing a serious risk to people, cars, and nearby structures.

Visible Leaning

A slight lean in a tree isn’t always a concern—especially if it’s grown that way naturally. But a tree that suddenly starts to lean or appears off balance may have root damage or structural issues, especially if it leans toward your home, driveway, or power lines.

Cracks or Splits in the Trunk

Inspect your tree’s trunk for long vertical cracks, splits, or deep wounds. These may weaken the tree’s stability. A compromised trunk means the tree could be at risk of breaking or toppling, especially during storms.

Fungal Growth at the Base

Mushrooms or fungal growth around the trunk or root zone can be a sign of internal rot. Even if the tree appears healthy up top, decay at the base could mean its foundation is slowly collapsing from the inside out.

Sparse Leaves or Early Defoliation

If your tree doesn’t leaf out as fully as it used to or begins shedding leaves far earlier than expected, it may be under stress. Discolored, wilted, or sparse foliage is often a symptom of disease or a failing root system.

Missing Bark or “Cankers”

Peeling or missing bark, sunken areas in the trunk, and visible damage known as cankers are indicators that the tree is not healing properly and may be in decline. Healthy trees should have continuous bark and strong outer protection.

Unstable Roots

Signs of root failure include exposed or lifting roots, soft ground around the trunk, or a tree that sways more than usual in the wind. Since most root systems are underground, the visible symptoms are crucial clues to overall stability.

Why These Signs Matter

A tree that’s dying doesn’t just stop growing—it can become a liability. Falling limbs and tree collapses cause thousands of dollars in damage every year and can even result in injury or power outages. The earlier you catch the warning signs, the easier and more affordable it is to resolve the issue safely.

What to Do Next: Call in the Experts

If any of these signs sound familiar, don’t wait. Trees in distress can fail suddenly. At Big Foot Tree Service, we offer professional tree assessments and will let you know if a tree can be saved—or if removal is the safest choice.

We’re fully licensed, insured, and registered with the New Jersey Board of Tree Experts, and we even handle permit checks with your municipality if a tree removal requires local approval.

Our Tree Services in Northern NJ Include:

Tree removal for dangerous or dead trees
Stump grinding and removal
Tree trimming and pruning for long-term health
Storm damage cleanup
Crane-assisted removals for large or hard-to-reach trees
Free estimates and prompt service

Don’t Take the Risk—Let Big Foot Tree Service Help

If you’re concerned about a tree on your property, give us a call for a free estimate. We’ll inspect the tree, answer your questions, and recommend the safest path forward.

Protect your home, your safety, and your peace of mind—trust Big Foot Tree Service, your local tree care experts in Northern New Jersey.

Contact Big Foot Tree Service at 973-885-8000 today or visit us online for more information!