“Is my tree sick?” This is one of the most common questions we hear as your certified arborist in Westbrook. In this article, the Lamb’s Tree & Plant Health Care team explains more about the symptoms of tree diseases.
1. Visible Sawdust or Sap Oozing
If you see sap oozing from the bark or little piles of sawdust, you’re dealing with wood-boring insects. You will also notice tiny holes in the trunk or branch.
Emerald Ash Borers are very common, but also look out for mud tubes. If you see this symptom, you might have termites.
If you catch the infestation early enough, pruning the tree might save it.
2. Exposed Roots
Problems with the root system are never a good sign. When the tree is dead or dying, it starts to overbalance, or the roots lose their grip on the soil. The result is that the roots start lifting.
Another cause of this issue is substandard soil, so it may be possible to save the tree if you act quickly.
3. Fungus or Root Rot
Spongy spots on the trunk or fungus growing around the roots are both bad signs. This indicates a fungal infection that needs quick action if you want to save the tree. You can try removing the rotten sections and killing the fungus.
4. Scabs
Scabs are a common reason why people ask, “Is my tree sick?” You might see these ugly discolored patches on the leaves or fruits, and this is a serious sign of fungal infection. They damage the tree’s structure and ability to photosynthesize, killing the tree over time.
5. Cracked or Peeling Bark
Some trees lose their bark naturally. If yours isn’t one of these, cracks or peeling bark are bad signs. These can indicate sunscalds or an injury to the tree.
A healthy tree will grow new bark quickly. If your tree is dying, it will lose more bark and develop more cracks, and unusual tree lumps or bulges may appear.
6. Brittle Branches
Healthy trees have flexible branches that bend in the wind. If your tree’s branches snap easily, there is likely an underlying issue. If the branches keep dropping off, your tree may be dying.
7. Unseasonal Leaf Drop or Wilting
If your tree drops its leaves outside of fall, this is a sure sign of distress. Also, look for wilting leaves or those that are smaller than normal. These may be signs of illness, pests, or a lack of water and nutrients.
8. Unusual Leaning
Leaning that develops overnight is also a sure sign of trouble. Saving this tree may prove difficult, as it is likely experiencing root damage. Call in the pros as soon as possible, as the tree is likely to topple.
Contact Our Team
Are you wondering, “Is my tree sick?” Get professional advice on this issue and others, like what makes trees grow, by calling us at 860-266-0494. Lamb’s Tree & Plant Health Care is your go-to team in Westbrook, CT, and the surrounding areas. Stable Trader
