Minnesota winters are no joke — and they’re tough on trees. Between heavy snow, freezing temps, and harsh winds, it’s not uncommon for even healthy trees to come out of winter worse for wear.
As we head into spring in the Twin Cities, now’s the perfect time to walk your yard and check for damage. Catching issues early can save you money (and headaches) down the road — especially if a weakened tree is near your home or power lines.
Here are the top 5 signs your tree may not have made it through the winter — and what you should do next.
1. No Buds or Delayed Leafing
Healthy trees start to show buds and signs of growth as temperatures warm up. If your tree still looks bare while others around it are budding, that’s a red flag.
What to do: Try the scratch test — lightly scrape a small branch with your fingernail. If it’s brown and dry underneath (not green), the branch is likely dead.
2. Cracks or Splits in the Trunk
Extreme cold and temperature swings can cause the bark to crack vertically. These splits can expose the tree to disease and pests.
What to do: Small cracks might heal, but larger splits (especially near the base) could signal structural failure. It’s best to have it inspected.
3. Brittle or Falling Branches
If limbs snap off easily or are already on the ground, that’s a sign the wood is dry and dead. Dead branches can fall during storms and cause damage.
What to do: Prune small limbs if you can safely, but call us for larger branches or if the tree has multiple dead limbs.
4. Fungal Growth at the Base
Mushrooms or fungi growing around the roots or trunk can indicate internal rot. That often means the tree has been dead (or dying) for a while.
What to do: This usually means the tree is unsafe to keep. We’ll assess whether removal is necessary.
5. Leaning or Uprooted Trees
Heavy snow and ice can shift a tree’s position — especially if the soil is saturated. If your tree is leaning more than usual, it could fall.
What to do: Don’t wait. A leaning tree is unpredictable and dangerous. Call us for an emergency assessment.
Don’t Guess — Let’s Take a Look
If you’re unsure whether a tree is dead or just stressed, we’re happy to come out and take a look. At Renstrom Tree Service, we’ve helped homeowners all across the Twin Cities area handle tree damage safely and affordably — using our CMC Tracked Aerial Lift for tough-to-reach spots without damaging your lawn.
Let’s get your property spring-ready — before storm season hits.
- Call us today or request a free quote online.
FAQs
Can a dead tree come back to life?
Unfortunately, no. If it’s truly dead, the safest option is removal.
When’s the best time to remove a dead tree?
Early spring is ideal — before new growth starts and before storm season.
Do you offer emergency tree service?
Absolutely. If your tree poses an immediate danger, we offer emergency removal services throughout the Twin Cities.
Erik Renstrom
For over a decade, Erik Renstrom, along with his company Renstrom Tree Service have been servicing the Minneapols / St. Paul area, helping home owners and businesses with their trees. Whether you have a tree that has fallen on your house or need storm damage cleanup, we are here for you, 24-7. Call Erik today! (651) 363-9616