Winter in Central Texas can be confusing for homeowners trying to figure out what’s going on with their trees. When the leaves fall and branches look bare, it’s natural to wonder: “Is my tree dead… or is it just dormant?” At Brents Tree Service, we get this question all the time, especially during colder months. Here’s a simple checklist to help you tell the difference and know when to call a professional.
Understanding Dormancy in Central Texas Trees
Most native trees especially Live Oaks, Cedar Elms, and Red Oaks enter a period of winter dormancy. This is a normal, healthy process where the tree conserves energy until temperatures rise again. Dormant trees often look dry or lifeless, but that doesn’t mean there’s a problem. The goal is to spot the difference between normal dormancy and the warning signs of decline.
Winter Checklist: Dead or Dormant?
Use this simple checklist to evaluate your tree:
1. Look for Buds - Even in winter, a healthy dormant tree will have small buds on its branches.
- Healthy Sign: Firm, rounded buds that are green or moist on the inside.
- Warning Sign: No buds at all, or buds that are dry, brittle, or crumbling.
2. Scratch Test the Branches - Gently scratch off a tiny section of bark on a small branch.
- Healthy Sign: Green or light-colored moist tissue underneath.
- Warning Sign: Brown, dry, or brittle tissue—dead wood.
3. Look for Fungal Growth or Rot - Take a close look at the trunk and base of the tree.
- Warning Signs: Mushrooms growing around the trunk Soft, crumbling, or peeling bark Deep cracks or oozing sap These can indicate internal decay not just dormancy.
4. Check the Canopy Structure - Dead sections often show a pattern.
- Healthy Sign: Uniform dormancy across the tree.
- Warning Sign: Large dead branches A thinning canopy Only part of the tree leafing out in spring This may point to disease, drought stress, or structural decline.
5. Watch for Pests or Insect Damage - Central Texas pests like borers and beetles can cause major damage.
- Warning Signs: Exit holes in the bark Sawdust-like shavings Bark falling off in patches Pests often attack weakened or dying trees first.
When to Call Brents Tree Service
If you’re unsure whether your tree is dead or just dormant, it’s always best to have a professional arborist inspect it. Dead or declining trees can be dangerous especially during windy winter storms.
We can help you with:
- Tree health evaluations
- Dead or hazardous tree removal
- Winter pruning and shaping
- Emergency storm-response tree service
- Long-term health plans for oaks and native Texas trees
Keep Your Trees Safe This Winter
Dormancy is natural but tree decline isn’t. A quick inspection now can prevent expensive damage later. Concerned about a tree on your property? Contact Brents Tree Service today for a professional evaluation. Serving Austin, Georgetown, Round Rock, and surrounding Central Texas communities.