FAQ

We have a tree that might be about 30 years old. The bark on the upper limbs has always peeled, but this spring, it is also peeling in the trunk and no leaves have bloomed. I believe this is either an Elm or Ash tree. Neighbors say it's dying but no big branches have fallen nor are their any holes in the tree or mushrooms growing at the base. Woodpeckers put holes in the trunk, but I don't know if that would cause the bark to peel off. May it be due to the very cold weather this past winter?

If indeed it is an Elm or an Ash, then we're in trouble: the Elms and Ashes are leafing out in some areas. We would really have to look at it, or at least know what type of tree it is. For instance, if it's a Pecan, then they slough of plenty of bark, both in the canopy and on the trunk; they're also very late coming out in the spring. Regarding big branches breaking, cavities, and fungal fruiting structures: these occur on trees living and dead, and have nothing to do with whether the tree is alive, dead, or dying. I doubt the severe winter is a cause, unless the tree was already in severe decline before the winter. We would be glad to come out and look. Click here to schedule an appointment.