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200 yr old Oak Tree Needs Owners Need Guidance for Care #926315

Asked March 19, 2026, 2:14 PM EDT

We met the Oak Tree in 1981 when we moved in. :) It had a sister tree on the right that was removed before we moved it. This tree at that time had no branches on the right side . It filled out as you see on the right over time. It was hit by lighting in 2000 and blew some of the bark off the tree. The wound healed well. We have watched t old oak trees in the neighborhood dying slowly and removed over the last 10 years Maybe 4 years ago, the crown in ours started dying out. We had some large branches removed a couple of years ago mid winter as it was growing close to neighbor's home. Branches are starting to fall into the yard on Windy days and the general smaller 3-4 foot Branches during the summer. Concern. How do we move forward with this beautiful dying tree. with the crown dying do we take the whole tree down or cut side branches . We know it will be expensive and we are pretty sure it is still solid in the ground, Would like imput from you for time line, strategy and references for those that Could be helpful for us if cutting it down or trimming is necessary. The tree is by landscaping and buildings and the neighbors home. We value your advice on all levels . We release we must act in a timely because of the weather and pruning windows of opportunity. Thank you for your time

Hennepin County Minnesota

Expert Response

It doesn't look good for your tree.  It is possible it is either dying from old age or oak wilt.  Depending on how far away the neighboring trees that have been removed were, oak wilt will pass to other trees as the roots merge.  Removing more branches will not help.  You could have a certified arborist make a house call to diagnose the problem but my advice would be to remove the tree now rather than doing it piece by piece which will have the same end result. If you do decide to consult with a certified arborist, go to this site. Click on Find An Arborist.  Enter your zip code when prompted and a list of certified arborists in your area will appear.  If you decide to replace the tree, chose a different variety, perhaps a linden.  https://www.treesaregood.org/
Barbara, Anoka County MG, TCA Replied March 19, 2026, 6:01 PM EDT

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