If you’re like most people, you probably don’t give much thought to the trees in your yard. But did you know that sometimes trees can get sick? It’s important to be able to spot the signs of a sick tree, so that you can get it treated before it dies and needs to be removed. Keep reading to learn the signs of a sick tree and how to help it.
Why Do Trees Get Sick?
Trees can get sick just like any other living being. Environmental changes and physical damage are by far the most common problems that cause tree disease. Storms can cause serious damage to trees, but they are also susceptible to disease, especially if they are lacking water or nutrients. Additionally, pests can plague trees and cause them to lose their bark and decay.
Since most people aren’t inspecting their trees regularly for illness, these issues can become severe.
Yellowing Leaves
One of the most common signs of a sick tree is yellowing leaves. If you notice that the leaves on your tree are starting to turn yellow, it could be a sign that something is wrong. Yellow leaves can indicate a number of different problems, including nutrient deficiency, pests, or disease.
Wilted or Dying Leaves
If you notice wilted or falling leaves at the wrong time of year, this is the first sign that branches are about to die. Wilted leaves mean that the leaves aren’t getting the water or nutrition they need to grow, which impacts the tree as a whole. Wilted, dying, discolored, or damaged leaves indicate a wide range of issues within the tree, from insect infestation to rot.
Noticing this issue as soon as possible will help to save a tree from disease and pests. It’s important to try to remedy the problem as quickly as possible with guidance from a professional. If you are in the Sacramento area, please call the tree care professionals at Tree Care Incorporated to help.
Branch Dieback
Another sign of a sick tree is branch dieback. This is when the tips of the branches start to turn brown and die. This can be caused by several different things, including disease, pests, or poor nutrition. If you notice branch dieback, make sure to have your tree checked out by a professional to see what the cause might be.
Dead and Weak Branches
If branches are brittle, dry, drooping, or cracking, it could mean that the tree is severely damaged. You can test whether a branch is dying by snapping it. If it snaps and is bone dry, the branch is already dead. If a branch bends instead of easily snapping, it may be able to be saved.
A tree with dead or weakened branches can be dangerous to your safety. Unhealthy branches on a large tree can drop suddenly and without warning, causing damage to the surrounding property.
If you notice dead branches on your trees, call the professional arborists at Tree Care Incorporated in Sacramento, California to remove dead or weak branches from a tree immediately. The tree care professional will also inspect the rest of the tree for disease or weaknesses.
Tree Bark Abnormalities
The bark is the outer shell of a tree that affords protection. When it is unable to do its job, the rest of the tree suffers too. Therefore, damage to the outside of a tree can be more dangerous than it seems and significant damage across the outside of a tree can kill it entirely. Discolored, moist, flaking, or weeping bark can indicate that a tree is sick.
Insect Attacks on Trees
Insects and trees can coexist, but when a tree is beset upon by pests, it can become ill quickly. If you notice an influx of insects, it’s possible that your tree is at serious risk.
The types of insects depend on the area you live in, but some things to look out for include oozing sap, wilting, leaf curling, and tree dieback.
If your tree is already damaged, it could be at risk for a termite infestation. Termites feed on deadwood and will only begin to eat a tree that is already somewhat damaged. These insects will further weaken branches and the structure of the tree making it more susceptible to damage during storms.
Decay and Mold
It’s possible for trees to get too much water. If they are in a muddy or boggy area, decay, mold, and rot can set in. When trees start to rot, it can be very difficult to manage. The rot must be cut away immediately or it will take over the entire tree.
Mold can be an indicator that a tree is rotting from within. It can also happen for a variety of other reasons, such as too much moisture on its bark.
How To Prevent Trees From Becoming Sick
Regular maintenance is a great way to prevent your trees from becoming sick. The certified tree care experts at Tree Care Incorporated can identify potential illness, trim away dead limbs, and keep your property safe from tree damage. We’ll inform you of changes in your trees from one visit to the next and advise how to sustain healthy trees.
What Should You Do If A Tree Is Sick?
If you think a tree is sick, it’s important to address it quickly before it becomes too damaged to save. A sick tree can fall and easily damage surrounding structures, cars, or people. It also depreciates your property value.
The best way to find out whether your tree is sick is to call a professional. Your tree may be treatable depending on how severely sick or injured it is. Some trees may need to be braced while they recover or have branches cut away or splinted.
If you’re worried that your tree might be ill, it’s time to call the professionals. Contact the certified arborists at Tree Care Incorporated to keep your trees healthy in Sacramento, California and the surrounding areas.
