Question
I live in the northeast (CT), and have a dogwood which has several patches of large moss on it. The tree has recent been losing a lot of large branched which started last summer, when i trimmed all the dead branches they were very moist and heavy. This summer several larger branches have continued to die, and i am afraid if this continues to happen the whole tree is doomeed. I have another dogwood about 7 feet away which is perfectly fine. Please help.

Thanks,
Missy

Answer
The moss may be an indication that the tree is under stress from some other reason.  The dead wood being moist and heavy may be caused by the moss holding water around the branches and causing rot due to the lack of air circulation and sunlight.  If you can, remove the moss.  Also, look for fungal lesions on the leaves.  In your area, there is disease called anthracnose that can kill the tree and is contagious.  Also check the base of the tree for any physical wounds such as lawn mower or weed eater.  Please respond back with which of these scenarios fits closest and I can provide a more detailed recommendation.  Thanks.