Although they can be incredibly long-lived, no tree lives forever. Whether it’s climate, insects, accidents, or old age, every tree will eventually stop growing. However, it’s not always apparent on the outside when a tree dies. A tree can look healthy in one regard despite being dead. 

This can have you second-guessing yourself with questions like “Can a dead tree have green leaves, anyway?”

It’s important to monitor the health of trees on your property. Most tree-borne diseases are easier to treat if caught early, and you don’t want to spend time or money watering a dead tree. 

When in doubt, remember that you can always call the top tree service contractor in Foster!

The Short Answer

Can a dead tree have green leaves? 

The answer is no. If a tree grows new green leaves, it is not dead. However, you might see green leaves on a dying tree, as it could be sick or impaired.

How Do I Tell if a Tree Is Sick?

Different trees can express symptoms differently. It might only sometimes be obvious that a tree is sick or diseased until those last few critical days. However, many subtle warning signs can indicate something’s off. These include:

• Dead wood or flaking bark. If a tree is too brittle, it risks breaking in the winter. Be mindful of dead branches near cars, windows, or driveways. This can look like a canopy of green on a dead tree, so pay careful attention.
• A tree’s overall architecture. Years of damage can bend trunks or upend root structures, compromising a tree’s integrity. This can result in a tree with green foliage but dead branches, which can prevent a tree from circulating nutrients correctly. 
• Missing foliage. This is another sign of tree disease, especially during the spring. If a tree isn’t blooming correctly, something’s going on. Remember, you won’t see a truly dead tree with live foliage. 

When To Remove a Sick Tree

It’s not always possible to save a tree. A dead tree has a much more significant risk of falling, posing a hazard to nearby buildings. After looking for signs of life in a dead tree, you should be prepared to remove it if:

• It risks spreading the disease or parasite that killed it. 
• It has looming, dead branches that might fall on cars, rooftops, or people. 
• Hazardous fungi or invasive plant species have begun to grow on it. 

Call a tree removal service immediately if you think a dead tree with green leaves poses a hazard. 

Expert Tree Care and Removal in Foster, TX

Remember, if you’re asking “Can a dead tree have green leaves?” the answer is no. There may still be time to act! You may simply be seeing signs that your tree needs water or other forms of care. 

If you have a dying tree that needs attention, or a dead tree that needs removal, we’ve got you covered. Call Meadows Tree Service at 832-692-4931 today for tree care services in Texas.