By late spring to midsummer, most trees and shrubs are fully leafed out and actively growing. However, if a plant in the landscape is still bare, sparse or failing to thrive, it's natural to wonder whether it’s dead or simply struggling. While spring is typically the ideal time to assess plant health, there’s still plenty that can be done in summer to check for signs of life and determine whether a plant can recover with the right care.

A simple and effective way to test plant vitality is the scratch test. Using a fingernail or pocketknife, gently scratch away a small section of bark on a twig or stem. If the tissue beneath is green and moist, that part of the plant is still alive. If it’s dry and brown, that section may be dead. It’s a good idea to start this test near the base of the plant, as the lower trunk and roots may still be viable even if the top growth is not. Another quick check is the snap test. Bend a small twig to see if it’s still flexible. Live wood will bend, while dead wood will snap cleanly and feel brittle.

In summer, visual clues also become more telling. Plants that have not produced any buds or leaves by this point, especially if combined with brittle branches and bark damage, may not recover. Signs such as peeling bark, deep cracks or fungal growth often indicate that a plant is in serious decline. However, if green tissue is found through scratch testing, especially lower on the plant, there may still be a chance for recovery. Many trees and shrubs can experience delayed growth due to stressors such as late freezes, drought, transplant shock or other environmental challenges. Some may only flush out partially or take longer to regain strength, even well into the growing season.

For plants that are alive but showing poor or delayed growth, supportive care can help reduce further stress. Deep, infrequent watering is important during hot summer months. Water should be applied at the base of the plant, preferably in the morning, to avoid encouraging disease. Pruning should be avoided unless there is clearly dead wood, as trimming live tissue can further stress a struggling plant. Applying mulch can be beneficial, 3 to 4 inches around the base helps conserve moisture and regulate soil temperatures, but the mulch should be kept away from the trunk to prevent rot. It’s also wise to monitor for signs of insect damage or disease, as weakened plants are more susceptible to pests.

If a plant has not shown any signs of life by midsummer and fails both the scratch and snap tests, it may be time to consider replacement. However, as long as there is green tissue and some sign of growth, continued care and patience may be worthwhile. Not all plants follow the same recovery timeline, and even a struggling tree or shrub can rebound with the right support. With a careful eye and a bit of summer maintenance, many plants that appear beyond help can still surprise with a second chance at life.