For most property owners, the science behind tree care remains a mystery. Beyond essential water and nutrients, most people know little about the life cycle of a tree. So when a tree dies on a person’s property, it’s easy for the person to assume the tree died of old age. 

But what really happens as a tree ages? Our team at Trees N Scapes Unlimited can help answer that question. We’re a trusted local tree service in Fayetteville, providing expert tree care to help property owners from all walks of life make the most of their trees. 

In this blog, we cover the life process of trees, answering questions like “do trees die of old age?” and more. If you’re wondering if trees on your property are dying of old age, read this guide to learn more, or skip the wait and schedule a consultation with our Trees N Scapes Unlimited team today. 

The Average Lifespan of Trees

To understand the likelihood of a tree dying of old age on your property, it helps to know the average life span of a tree and how scientists and tree care professionals determine the age of a tree. 

Experts use a series of measurements to make an educated guess about the age of any living tree. If the tree is dead, has fallen, or has been chopped down, experts can use a science called dendrochronology to date the tree. 

Dendrochronology, or tree ring dating, counts the number of rings present in a crosssection of a tree trunk. As trees grow, they develop a new woody layer each year. By counting the markings left by each growth cycle, visible in the form of rings, scientists and tree care professionals can determine a tree’s exact age. 

Different Types of Trees Live Longer

Tree lifespans vary significantly from species to species. Some species may live less than 100 years, while at least one other species of tree has been determined to live up to and beyond 5,000 years. Ancient trees like the Great Basin Bristlecone Pine seem primed for immortality and could continue living for thousands of years. 

Tree Age In Theory 

In theory, trees can die of old age. However, surveys of the world’s oldest living trees have failed to reveal signs of aging. This would seem to indicate that many species of trees could have incredibly long lifespans, provided that disease, injury, or some other factor does not kill the tree. 

Environmental Factors That Impact The Life of a Tree

Many environmental stressors can contribute to the death of a tree. Though each tree species has developed unique qualities to enhance durability and survival, natural forces can and do disrupt a tree’s defenses. 

Environmental factors that impact a tree’s lifespan include: 

• Nutrient deficiencies
• Invasive pests
• Common diseases
• Animals
• Lightning and storm damage
• Fires
• And more

Signs A Tree Is Struggling

Keep an eye out for the following signs your tree is struggling in some way:

• Yellowing of leaves
• Leaf drop
• Bark shedding
• Changes in bark color
• Insect infestations
• Mold growth at the base of the tree
• And more

Is The Tree Dead?

Unsure if a mature tree on your property is dead? Avoid safety risks by scheduling an inspection with a trained tree care expert in your area. 

Expert Tree Care In Fayetteville

Do trees die of old age? They can, but often nature does the job first. 

Now that you know how long a tree can live, keep a lookout for the signs you may need to call a dead tree removal service. 

Need tree guidance for your property? Schedule a consultation with Trees N Scapes Unlimited by calling 479-802-5766 today.