Is My Newly Planted Tree Dead?

Planting a new tree can be a joyous occasion as it signifies new beginnings and growth. However, what happens when the tree you just planted seems to be struggling or even appears dead? It can be disheartening and frustrating, but there are a few things you can do to determine if your newly planted tree is actually dead or still has a chance to thrive.

Assess the Bark

One of the first things to check when determining whether a tree is dead or not is the bark. Take a close look at the bark on the trunk and branches of the tree. If the bark is dry and flaky, it could be a sign that the tree is dead. On the other hand, if the bark is moist and pliable, the tree may still be alive. Additionally, if you gently scrape away a small section of the bark and the layer underneath is green and moist, this is a good indication that the tree is still alive.

Check for Buds

Another way to determine if your newly planted tree is dead is to check for buds. During the spring season, trees should be producing buds that will eventually bloom into leaves or flowers. If you can’t find any buds, it could be a sign that the tree has died. However, it’s important to note that some trees may not produce visible buds until a few years after being planted, so this method may not always be foolproof.

Test the Branches

The branches of a tree can also give you an indication of whether the tree is alive or dead. Gently bend a few of the smaller branches on the tree. If they’re pliable and bend easily without snapping, there’s a good chance that the tree is still alive. If the branches snap easily, however, it could be a sign that the tree is dead.

Try the Scratch Test

If you’re still unsure whether your newly planted tree is dead or alive, you can try the scratch test. Use a sharp knife or pruner to scratch a small section of the bark away from the trunk of the tree. If the layer underneath is green and moist, the tree is still alive. However, if it’s brown and dry, the tree may have died.

Conclusion

When you’ve invested time, money and effort into planting a tree, it can be disappointing to discover that it’s struggling or dead. However, there are a few methods you can use to determine whether your tree is still alive or not. By assessing the bark, checking for buds, testing the branches and trying the scratch test, you can get a good idea of whether your newly planted tree is dead or has the chance to continue growing and thriving.