Ever noticed a tree in your backyard that just doesn’t look quite right? Maybe the leaves have disappeared, the bark is peeling, or it hasn’t bounced back after the last season. You might be wondering: Is it still alive? Can I save it? Or is it time to remove it before it becomes dangerous?
If you’ve been staring at that tree for weeks trying to figure out whether it’s still got life left in it, you’re not alone. Many Perth homeowners deal with the same dilemma, especially after our scorching summers and occasional winter storms. Understanding how to tell the difference between a sick, dormant, or completely dead tree is crucial not only for your garden’s appearance but also for your safety and the value of your property.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about identifying a dead or dying tree, what risks it poses, and what you should do next.
What Does a Dead Tree Actually Look Like?
One of the trickiest things about dead trees is that they don’t always look “dead” right away. Some stand upright for months or even years after they’ve died, but that doesn’t mean they’re stable or safe. In fact, a tree that’s structurally compromised can become increasingly dangerous over time.
Here are the key signs to look for in Perth’s conditions.
1. No Leaves During the Growing Season
Most native Australian trees, including the jarrah, marri, and tuart found across Perth and the South West, are evergreen. That means they should hold onto leaves all year round. If you’ve got a gum tree that’s bare during spring or summer, that’s a major warning sign.
For deciduous trees like liquidambar or jacaranda, you should expect fresh growth by late spring. If new buds don’t appear, it could mean the tree has gone beyond stress and into decline.
2. Brittle or Peeling Bark
It’s normal for a healthy tree to shed bark in small, irregular patches. But if you notice large strips peeling away, revealing dry or brittle wood beneath, that suggests the tree is in trouble. Try scratching the trunk lightly with a coin or your fingernail. If there’s no green tissue beneath the surface, that section may be dead.
3. No Buds or New Growth
Healthy trees in Perth respond to seasonal changes. Even after a dry summer, they’ll usually push out some new shoots when conditions improve. A complete absence of buds or new leaves often signals that the tree can no longer produce energy and is likely dead.
4. Mushroom or Fungal Growth at the Base
Mushrooms or fungal shelves growing around the base of your tree are signs of internal rot. This is common in older trees or those affected by excess moisture. The tree may look solid from the outside, but inside it could be hollowing out, leaving it structurally unsafe.
5. Cracks, Cavities, or Splits in the Trunk
Deep splits, large cavities, or holes in the trunk should never be ignored. These usually point to severe decay or old storm damage that has compromised the tree’s strength. A weakened trunk is more likely to fail during Perth’s winter storms or when hit by strong coastal winds.
The Scratch Test: A Quick DIY Check
If you’re unsure whether your tree is dead or just stressed, try the scratch test.
- Pick a small section of bark on a trunk or large branch.
- Use your fingernail or a pocketknife to gently scratch the surface.
- Look underneath:
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- Green and moist? The tree is alive.
- Brown and brittle? That section is dead.
Repeat the test in different areas. Sometimes only parts of a tree are dead while others are still alive. If the trunk itself shows no green tissue, the entire tree is likely gone.
Can You Bring a Dying Tree Back to Life?
The hard truth is that a completely dead tree cannot be revived. Once the vital cambium layer under the bark stops working, water and nutrients can’t circulate. However, if parts of the tree are still alive, there might be options.
You may be able to save the tree if:
- The decline is caused by pests (like borers or aphids) that can be treated.
- It’s stressed from Perth’s dry summers and needs proper watering.
- The soil is compacted or lacking nutrients and can be improved.
- Only part of the crown is affected, not the entire tree.
In these cases, an arborist might recommend targeted pruning, mulching, soil treatments, or irrigation improvements. But this should always be done under professional guidance, as incorrect pruning or over-watering can accelerate decline instead of fixing it.
Why Leaving a Dead Tree Is a Bad Idea
Even if a dead tree looks harmless, leaving it standing comes with risks — and in Perth’s weather, those risks can become urgent very quickly.
1. Falling Limbs or Total Collapse
Dead wood is brittle and unpredictable. One strong winter storm or even a hot summer gust can send limbs crashing down. This can cause damage to cars, fences, roofs, or power lines — and serious injury if someone is nearby.
2. Legal Liability
If a tree on your property falls and damages your neighbour’s property, you could be held legally responsible. Perth councils also expect property owners to manage dangerous trees. Ignoring the problem can lead to fines and disputes.
3. Pest and Termite Attraction
Dead trees are magnets for termites, ants, and borers. Once they’ve settled into a dead trunk, it’s only a matter of time before they migrate into your house or shed. Removing the dead tree early helps protect your property from infestations.
4. Reduced Property Value
An untidy, neglected yard can impact how potential buyers view your home. Dead or dangerous trees can signal maintenance problems, lowering property appeal.
Can You Remove a Dead Tree Yourself?
While it’s tempting to cut down a dead tree on your own, it’s rarely a safe idea. Tree removal involves unpredictable risks, particularly if the tree is close to buildings, fences, or power lines. Even small trees can fall in unexpected directions, causing expensive damage.
In Perth, tree removal is also regulated. Many local councils require approval before you can remove trees, especially if they are native or protected species. The rules vary across suburbs, so it’s important to check with your council before acting.
Professional arborists and tree loppers have the training, insurance, and specialised equipment to carry out the job safely. For homeowners, this means peace of mind and protection from liability.
When Is the Best Time to Remove a Tree in Perth?
The ideal time for pruning or removal in Perth is late autumn to early spring. During these cooler months:
- Trees are less stressed from heat.
- Leaf growth is reduced, making it easier to see the structure.
- Wildlife is generally less active.
However, if your tree is clearly dead or poses an immediate hazard, don’t wait for the “right” season. It’s safer to remove it as soon as possible.
What Should You Do Now?
If you suspect your tree is dead or dying, the next step is to call in a professional. An arborist can confirm whether the tree is salvageable or if removal is the safest option.
Trying to guess on your own can be dangerous. A tree that looks stable could be hollow inside, and a tree that looks dead might still be saved with proper treatment. Getting an expert assessment takes away the uncertainty.
Professional Tree Removal in Perth
For Perth homeowners dealing with sick, dying, or dead trees, professional help is essential. Companies like A B Tree Loppers in Perth specialise in safe tree removal, pruning, and stump grinding. They can assess your tree, advise on treatment or removal, and carry out the work using the right equipment and safety procedures.
Whether you need one branch removed or an entire tree cleared, engaging experienced professionals protects both your property and your peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
Dead or dying trees aren’t just an eyesore — they’re a risk to safety, property value, and even your home’s structural integrity if termites move in. By learning the signs and acting early, you can prevent bigger problems down the line.
If your tree is struggling, start with an inspection. If it’s salvageable, proper care might revive it. If it’s gone past the point of no return, professional removal is the safest choice. In Perth, with our unique climate and council regulations, the smartest move is always to consult an experienced arborist or tree lopper before making any decisions.
So, if you’ve got a tree that’s looking a little worse for wear, don’t leave it to guesswork. Get it checked, and if necessary, let the experts take care of it before it becomes a danger in your own backyard.
