Did you know trees can get sick too? If you see some of the following things, it means there’s disease, pests, or other factors affecting it:

Holes in leaves

This is most commonly from insect damage, as caterpillars and beetles tend to chew through the bottom side of leaves as they move. However, fungal diseases are a more serious problem and can affect the overall health of the tree. You can tell the difference in that insect damage appears quickly, while fungal disease usually starts with a black or brown blemish, and eventually turns into a hole.

Dead or dying branches

If the tree is old, natural tree decline is bound to happen, which means a portion of its branches will decay and die. However, it can also be a sign of tree disease, as when a branch is affected by disease, the tree chokes off resources to that branch so that it will decay and break or drop off. A certified arborist can inspect the tree and possibly cut out diseased branches to keep the rest of the tree as healthy as possible.

Moldy-looking spots on leaves or bark

As mentioned above, fungal disease starts with a blemish or spot on a leaf before it spreads and causes more harm to the leaves and trunk. If you see areas like this on your tree, contact an arborist to examine the tree and properly diagnose the issue so that it can be treated effectively.

Yellowing or Brown leaves or needles

When leaves turn yellow or brown (and it’s not fall), it can mean the tree is nutrient deficient. This will stunt leaf and fruit growth, and happens because the soil lacks nitrogen and other minerals, or the soil’s pH is too low. Slow release fertilizers and compost can help the soil and subsequently, the tree.

Wilting

Heat and drought are the most common things that will wilt the tree’s leaves, but can also wilt because the soil around the tree is water-logged. Overwatered leaves will be limp and soft, while heat and drought affected leaves will be brown and dry.

If you suspect your tree is sick, give us a call to have one of our certified arborists come and take a look.