I have a pine tree that was our old Xmas tree from last year. The needles are still attached and rubbing … If the tree has neither leaves nor buds, you may wonder: “is my tree dead or alive.” There are other tests you can do to tell should this be the case. Evergreen trees are known for foliage that stays green all year. How can i tell if my pine tree is dead? If they break quickly without arching, the branch is dead. Trimming (opening a new wound) will force it to take more energy to heal itself. I cannot reach the branches. Bark beetles leave a yellow-to-brownish tint on tree crowns. 3 years ago. If brown needles are present in abundance, check the branches for new growth like needles and buds. You’ll also find sawdust on the bark and base of the tree. I CHECKED AND MY TREE IS DEAD. They primarily target older or weakened trees. How to Tell If an Evergreen Is Dead?. By early-to-mid fall, the hatched beetles start feeding on tree stems, cutting off their water flow. Bend some of the smaller branches to see if they snap. How to Save a Dying Evergreen Tree tree_care; Tree Care, Tree Diseases; Trees like all living things have a lifecycle. If the entire tree is covered in brown needles, the chances are that the pine is dying or already dead. During that lifecycle, they may experience periods of growth, illness, infestation, severe weather, and a myriad of… How can I tell if my mature pine trees are dormant or dead? So, if possible, leave a stressed tree alone. White pine weevils lay their eggs on a tree’s main branches in spring. Many pines suffered during the drought-like conditions that the Houston area, including Missouri City, experienced during the summer of 2009. If there is no new growth showing and the pine needles are brown, the tree is most likely dead. Is My Pine Tree Dead? I just moved into this house and the tree is looking pretty bad but I wan't to see if I can save it before I cut it down. Dustin Barrett. If your tree has significant stress, it’s more susceptible to pests and disease. Is my Pine tree dead? Brown needles are dead needles. One still has a few pine cones on it. They recently lost their needles after turning brown in July/August. If you’re positive that your tree is dead… I am trying to decide what to do with this pine tree. It was a nice shade of green up until the blistering heat and drought of August, and now is mostly brown.