5 Signs That a Tree May Be Dying

Amador Tree Service • April 16, 2025
A large tree with lots of leaves is surrounded by other trees on a sunny day.

When a tree starts to decline, it can soon become a serious safety hazard. A dying tree is more vulnerable to disease, pests, and structural failure, making it important to recognize the warning signs early. At Amador Tree Service, our local arborists can identify dying trees and then safely remove them as necessary.     Here are five signs that a tree may be dying.


Bark Damage and Peeling

If the bark is falling off in large chunks or revealing smooth, bare wood underneath, it may indicate a serious problem. Deep cracks in the bark can also make the tree susceptible to pests and disease, accelerating its decline. If a tree's bark is brittle or missing in large sections, it could be a sign that the tree is no longer able to sustain itself.


Lack of Healthy Leaves

A tree’s leaves are a clear indicator of its overall health. If a tree is not producing new leaves in the spring or has sparse or discolored foliage, it may be struggling to survive. Dead or dying trees often show signs of leaf loss outside of the normal seasonal cycle, with leaves falling prematurely.


Brittle/Dead Branches

A tree with dead or brittle branches is likely experiencing health issues. When branches break easily or snap under minimal pressure, it suggests that the tree is losing its structural integrity. Dead branches also pose a danger, as they can fall unexpectedly, causing damage to property or injury to people. 


Leaning/Unstable Trunk

A tree that is leaning significantly or has an unstable trunk may be in the process of dying. While some trees naturally grow at an angle, a sudden or noticeable lean can suggest root damage or structural weakness. If a tree shows signs of instability, it’s important to have it assessed by an arborist before it becomes a bigger safety hazard.


Fungal Growth at the Base

The presence of fungal growth at the base of a tree can indicate internal decay. Fungi thrive on decomposing wood, so if you see clusters of mushrooms growing on the trunk or around the roots, it may mean that the tree is rotting from the inside out. Once internal decay sets in, the tree becomes weaker and more prone to collapse.


Tree Removal in Ione, CA

For tree removal in Ione, Placerville, Angels Camp and the surrounding area, contact Amador Tree Service at  209-213-4542. Feel free to give us a call to arrange an arborist estimate in Amador County!

Check Out the Latest Customer Reviews for Amador Tree Service in Ione, CA!

By Amador Tree Service • March 15, 2025
At Amador Tree Service, we’re proud members of the local small business community. It’s our mission to earn our customers’ complete satisfaction by doing top-quality tree work at fair rates. No matter how big or small the job, our local arborists will work diligently to complete it to the highest standards. And we’re grateful when our customers take the time to offer feedback about their experiences with us. Here are some of our latest customer reviews. “Richard and his crew provided prompt and professional service for our large mistletoe removal project. The oak trees around our home had various amounts of mistletoe and they cleared it all out in a single day. The trees look great and we would recommend their services to anyone.” — Rob S. “Richard and his crew are absolutely the best. Prompt, thorough and reasonable quotes along with the highest quality work. They go above and beyond with experienced arborists and highly skilled workers and leave a completely clean job site.” — Kathleen M. “Rich, Matt and their team removed nine trees, three of them being monster bull pines and having to work around fencing and other obstacles. They did a great job taking out the trees around these obstacles, cleaning up the work areas and hauling off the resulting timber. Rich and Matt understand what customer service means (unfortunately an art that has become lacking in today's society) and practice it very well. Not to mention their great sense of humor that made them a joy to have here. There are more trees on the property to be cleared out to help mitigate wildland fire danger and I will definitely be using their service again. Thanks guys!” — Michael M. “Knowledgeable and friendly crew. Arrived when they said they would, completed the job quickly and efficiently. I would hire them again. Thank you!” — Elaine S. “We had a big oak tree come down during a storm. Amador Tree Service removed it and then trimmed 11 other big oaks to remove weight from the outer branches to lessen the chance of future problems. They are very professional, friendly, and clean up perfectly after the work. We highly recommend them.” — John R. Tree Services in Ione, CA For an experienced arborist in Ione, Placerville, Angels Camp and the surrounding area, contact Amador Tree Service at  209-213-4542  . Feel free to give us a call to request an arborist estimate in Amador County!

5 Signs That a Tree is Creating a Safety Hazard & Should Be Removed by the Arborist

By Amador Tree Service • February 18, 2025
Trees are an essential part of your landscape, providing shade, beauty, and environmental benefits. However, certain situations arise where a tree can pose a safety risk to your property, family, or neighbors. Recognizing the warning signs that a tree may be a hazard is crucial to preventing accidents and avoiding damage to your home. At Amador Tree Service, we provide expert tree removal in the greater Ione, CA area. Here are five signs to look out for that a tree should be removed. Leaning/Tilting A tree that is leaning or tilting dramatically can be a significant safety concern. While some trees naturally have a slight lean, an exaggerated tilt could mean the tree's root system is compromised, especially after a heavy storm or due to soil erosion. If the tree's lean is toward a structure, or a frequently used area, it’s important to have an arborist assess whether it’s at risk of falling. Dead/Falling Branches Dead branches or branches that frequently fall are another red flag that a tree is a safety hazard. As trees age, their branches can become brittle and weak, and in some cases, the entire branch structure may be compromised. If you notice broken or decaying branches, it’s time to have the tree evaluated. These branches can fall unpredictably. Cracks in the Trunk or Large Cavity Formation Visible cracks or large cavities in the trunk of a tree can indicate serious internal decay. These issues weaken the structural integrity of the tree and increase the likelihood of it breaking or falling. If the tree has large sections of rotting wood, it’s not only vulnerable in high winds but may also collapse without warning. Root Damage or Exposed Roots A tree’s roots are vital for its stability, and damage to the root system can lead to the tree becoming unstable. Roots that are exposed or damaged can cause the tree to lean or even uproot entirely. If the roots are compromised, the tree’s ability to stay upright is diminished, making it an immediate safety concern. Proximity to Structures or Power Lines The location of the tree is a critical factor in determining whether it poses a risk. Trees that are too close to homes, power lines, or other structures can be hazardous during storms or high winds. If branches are hanging over power lines, for instance, there’s increased danger of electrical fires or outages. When a tree is in a risky location, removal should be considered a priority. Tree Removal in Ione, CA For tree removal in Ione , Placerville, Angels Camp and the surrounding area, contact Amador Tree Service at  209-213-4542  . Feel free to give us a call to arrange an arborist estimate in Amador County!