Dead Tree Removal

I use a section of an elderly lady's garden through a garden share scheme. Whilst I only have use of the border, there appears to be a dead tree in the middle of her lawn. She doesn't know what type of tree it is but last year it just seemed to die. It's about 7 foot high and an inch in diameter.

I've had a look at it and there doesn't seem to be any signs of emerging life. How long should I leave it to be absolutely sure it's dead and if it is, how would I go about removing it for her? Could I plant a fruit tree in its place or is it likely whatever killed it would kill a new tree?

Thanks

 

If the stem/trunk is only 1" in dia' I would think the roots are no bigger than a large bucket, so digging it out shouldn't be too hard. I would give it a full 12 months just to make sure it's a gonna. Does she have any snaps of grandkids with this tree in the frame and hopefully in leaf?

You could fill the hole with 'new' soil and disinfect the existing soil before planting another tree. Cheers, Tony.

 

I will ask her about photos. When I can get in touch with the other girl that shares the garden she may well know what it was.

I'm such a beginner, how would I disinfect the soil?