How to Tell if Newly Planted Tree is Dead

Planting a tree is a wonderful and rewarding experience. It not only enhances the beauty of your surroundings but also contributes to the environment. And, while planting a tree is a simple task, sometimes it can be challenging to determine whether the tree is alive or dead.

Inspect the Trunk

The first step in determining whether a newly planted tree is dead is to inspect the trunk. Check for peeling bark or dried, cracked bark. Avoid any trees that have these symptoms. However, if the bark is still intact, use your finger to scratch the surface gently. If you see green tissue under the bark or if it feels slightly moist, then the tree is still alive. But, if the trunk feels dry and brittle, it is likely that the tree is dead.

Examine the Branches

The second step is to examine the branches. Gently bend a few branches, looking for flexibility. If the branches feel pliable or bend without snapping, it’s an indication that the tree is alive. If they snap easily, the tree may have already died.

Check for New Growth

Another way to determine if a tree is alive is to check for new growth. Look for buds on the branches or tiny fresh green leaves growing from the trunk. These indicate that the tree is still alive and trying to recover from transplant shock. If you don't see any new growth, there is a chance that the tree has already died, especially if the growing season has already passed.

Test the Roots

To determine the health of the roots, you need to dig around the base of the tree. Dig deep enough to get to the root ball and examine the roots. Healthy roots will be firm, thick, and white. If you observe any signs of root rot, such as slimy, black, or mushy roots, it's an indication that the tree has already died.

Perform the Snap Test

If you have any doubts that whether the tree is alive or not, you can perform the snap test. Take one of the small branches from the tree and bend it to a 90-degree angle. If the branch snaps in half easily, it's an indicator that the tree is dead. On the other hand, if the branch doesn't snap and instead, bends easily, that means the tree is alive.

Conclusion

If you’ve recently planted a tree and are unsure whether it's alive or not, the above steps can help you assess its health. However, keep in mind that newly planted trees often experience transplant shock after planting. So, don't panic if you don't see any new growth initially. Give it time, and with proper care and maintenance, your new tree will thrive.