Red Crimson Maple Not Leafing Out: Frost, Decay, or Both?

A 15-year-old red maple budded but then stopped; green moss on bark; groove at base. Owner asks if it's dead.

Assessment

• Frost damage: Can kill buds; recovery usually in 2–4 weeks as temps warm.
• Green "moss" = lichens: Harmless, not a disease sign.
• Basal groove: Likely old wound with internal decay. Decay is progressive; no cure.

Tests

1. Scratch small twigs with fingernail—green under bark = alive.
2. Check leaves: wilted? dropping? none?
3. Send photo of basal groove for better diagnosis.

If no green tissue in twigs after a month, the tree is likely dead from decay.