Trees get sick just as humans do. According to arborists, several factors can make a tree sick. These include environmental changes, physical damage, and pest infestations. Unfortunately, most homeowners find it hard to tell whether a tree is seriously ill. For this reason, we’ve come up with the following signs of a sick or dying tree.
1. Discolored or Flaking Bark
Flaking, weeping, moist, or discolored bark may be a sign that your tree is unwell. The bark is the outer shell that protects the inner parts of a tree. When the bark gets detrimentally affected by something like a disease, it will not be able to provide the aforementioned protection. This is dangerous because when these inner parts are no longer shielded, the entire tree may die.
2. Wilted Leaves
Before we explain more on this point, you must know that falling leaves are a routine occurrence at certain times of the year. If you notice the leaves of your tree wilting or dying when they should be thriving and looking healthy, then this may be a sign of a sick tree. Wilted leaves indicate that the branches are starting to die, and consequently, the leaves are getting insufficient nutrients and moisture. This may also indicate that the tree has been infested by insects.
3. Weak Branches
If the branches of your tree are drying or starting to droop and crack, then it may be time to schedule a tree inspection service. That is because weak or dying branches often indicate that a tree is severely damaged. You can inspect a branch to test whether it is dying. If it is bone dry and snaps, then the branch is already dead.
It is advisable that you contact a professional tree service company as soon as possible to have the entire tree comprehensively inspected. That is because such a tree can be very dangerous, especially if it is big and extremely near your home.
4. Insect Infestation
Insects and trees have been coexisting for many years. However, when your tree is suddenly attacked by pests, this may be a sign that it is at risk of serious illness. Insects like spotted lanternflies are dangerous to trees. They cause an oozing sap, which in turn, makes the leaves curl and wilt.
Additionally, when spotted lanternflies feed, they excrete honeydew. Honeydew is a sugary substance that makes black sooty mold thrive at an incredible rate. Black sooty mold is also dangerous to trees. Besides these problems, pests such as carpenter ants and bark beetles live in trees that are sick and starting to die. So, when you notice them on your tree, it’s time to call an expert.
It is advisable that you care for your tree in the best way possible. This includes supplying it with adequate nutrients as instructed by professional arborists. If you are a resident of Redmond, OR and you are looking for services such as tree removal and stump grinding, call 4 Brothers Tree Service today.
