Did you recently spot strange bulges on your tree? They may not always be a bad sign, but they definitely warrant a closer look.
As a long-serving provider of tailored tree services in Chester, CT, we at Lamb’s Tree & Plant Health Care know a thing or two about unusual arboreal growths. Learn more about them here.
What Are Burls?
What are the big lumps on trees that worry many homeowners? A majority of them are burls. These rounded, knobby swellings on trunks or branches are a type of stress-induced growth response.
When trees sustain injuries, they surround the affected area with more woody tissue to isolate the damage. As long as the burls are not so large that they seem to impact the specimen’s stability, they’re usually not harmful. Woodworkers even prize them for their unique, swirling grain patterns.
Recognizing Potentially Harmful Lumps on Trees
How can you differentiate a protective swelling from something more serious? Watch out for the following growths and their symptoms:
Galls
When pests or pathogens invade a tree’s cambium layer, the tissues go into overdrive and grow haphazardly into galls. Whereas burls are smoother and a bit more rounded, these growths look tumorous and random because of the rapid cell division. You may also see vertical or horizontal striations.
Burls on their own aren’t always harmful, but they may indicate an active infection or infestation. Bring in a specialist the moment you notice these red flags:
- Presence of insects or sawdust-like frass near the base of the tree
- Branch dieback
- Leaf loss outside the normal seasonal cycle
- Unusual foliage discoloration or shape
Cankers
What are the big lumps on trees that warrant immediate intervention? Cankers are dead lesions caused by fungal or bacterial infections. They appear as sunken, cracked areas on bark or shallow, ulcer-like wounds.
These growths can eventually encircle entire branches, cutting off the flow of water and nutrients. In the most severe cases, they can progress into the main trunk and result in the tree’s death.
What To Do Next
Follow these steps to guarantee your specimen’s health:
- Inspect it regularly: Take photographs of the lumps regularly to monitor any changes. If other concerning symptoms accompany the growths, schedule a professional assessment as soon as possible.
- Provide extra care: Keep the tree healthy by providing adequate water, especially during dry spells. Organic or slow-release fertilizer may also help.
- Avoid wounding the tree: Stay vigilant when mowing or working near the tree to prevent damage. Even minor cuts or injuries can exacerbate the problem.
- Clean around the area: Remove any debris, fallen branches, or weeds. A tidy area prevents pests and diseases from spreading further or causing harm.
Trusted Arborists in Chester
What are the big lumps on trees that signify declining health? Instead of playing guessing games with your living landscape, leave it to Lamb’s Tree & Plant Health Care. Our team can assess fungal or insect-induced nodules and recommend the best course of action.
Call (860) 266-0494 today or read more of our blog and learn the warning signs of a sick tree. Finoryx AI
