Knowledgebase

Save this oak tree #749837

Asked May 13, 2021, 8:20 PM EDT

I have an oak tree in my yard. It was fully grown when we moved in 35 years ago. Last summer. it was completely healthy. But over the winter, I noticed it was losing a lot of bark. There are a bunch of bare branches and I can see a spot near the bottom of the tree where the bark seems to be peeling off. Plus, it has not gotten any new leaves this year. Is there way to save this tree or is it already dead.

Frederick County Maryland

Expert Response

Unfortunately, this tree looks like it is finished, I'm sorry to say. Most of the canopy appears to be dead and there is not anything you can do to help it recover at this point. We know how difficult it is to lose a mature tree like this. You should contact a licensed tree specialist or certified arborist to have the tree taken down safely. 

Go to the "additional resources" links at the bottom of this page to find a licensed tree expert.
https://extension.umd.edu/resource/how-do-you-decide-when-remove-tree

If you are interested in planting a replacement tree, some counties in Maryland offer rebates for tree planting. Check with your county government's office. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources also has a rebate program to support tree planting. https://dnr.maryland.gov/forests/pages/marylandersplanttrees/introduction.aspx

Christa 

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