How to Spot Signs of Tree Disease and When to Call an Arborist

Trees add beauty and value to your property, but when they get sick, they can pose risks to your home and landscape. Tree diseases aren’t always easy to detect, and by the time visible damage occurs, the problem may have spread too far. Knowing how to spot early signs of tree disease can save your tree and even prevent property damage. Here’s what to look for and when you should call an arborist for help.

1. Unusual Leaf Color or Early Leaf Drop

A telltale sign of disease in trees is the discoloration or early shedding of leaves. If your tree’s leaves start to turn yellow, brown, or show spots during a time of year when they should still be green, this could indicate a problem. Diseases like anthracnose or root rot can cause early leaf drop or abnormal leaf color. Keep an eye on patterns; if it’s only affecting one section of the tree, that’s a red flag.

2. Bark Abnormalities

Healthy trees have intact bark that fits tightly against their trunk. When you notice peeling, cracking, or loose bark, your tree may be suffering from disease or pest infestation. Look for signs of fungus, mold, or mushroom growth on the bark—these are clear indications that something is wrong. Cankers (sunken areas of dead tissue) or areas where the bark is missing entirely are also strong indicators of disease.

3. Visible Dead Branches

Dead branches can indicate that a tree is struggling. If you spot dead limbs, particularly in the upper canopy, the tree might be suffering from a disease like Dutch elm disease or oak wilt. Regular pruning of dead branches can help, but if you notice an increasing number of dead limbs, it’s time to call in a professional arborist to assess the situation.

4. Fungal Growth

Fungi thrive on dead or decaying organic material, so if you see mushrooms or fungal growth around the base of your tree or along its trunk, it could be a sign that the tree is rotting from the inside out. Fungal diseases, such as root rot or Armillaria (honey fungus), are common in stressed trees, especially those exposed to overwatering or poor soil conditions.

5. Changes in Tree Structure or Leaning

Healthy trees typically have a balanced structure with evenly spaced branches. If you notice your tree starting to lean, or if it looks like it’s losing its structural integrity, this could be an indicator of root disease or internal decay. While some trees lean naturally, sudden or significant leaning is often a sign that something is wrong beneath the surface.

6. Sticky or Oozing Sap

If your tree is producing excessive sap or sticky residue, it could be suffering from a bacterial or fungal infection. Sap oozing from wounds or areas of bark can be a symptom of a more severe issue, such as bacterial wetwood or slime flux. These diseases can weaken the tree and make it more vulnerable to pests or further decay.

When Should You Call an Arborist?

Some tree diseases can be treated if caught early, but knowing when to bring in a professional is essential. Here’s when you should call an arborist:

·      Sudden or Severe Changes: If you notice rapid leaf drop, substantial dieback, or large sections of dead bark, call an arborist immediately.

·      Unusual Growth: Fungal growths, mushrooms, or cankers are clear signs of underlying problems. An arborist can identify the root cause and recommend a treatment plan.

·      Structural Concerns: If your tree is leaning or losing branches, a certified arborist can assess its structural health and help you decide if it can be saved.

·      Pest Infestations: Trees weakened by disease are more vulnerable to pest infestations. If you spot an unusual number of pests, this could indicate a larger problem that an arborist should evaluate.

Spotting tree disease early can save your tree from serious damage and prevent hazards to your property. By keeping an eye on your trees and knowing the warning signs of disease, you can address problems before they escalate. If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact a certified arborist from Authority Tree Service. We have the experience and expertise to diagnose tree diseases and offer solutions that can extend the life of your trees. Let us help you maintain a healthy, beautiful landscape.

For expert advice or to schedule a consultation give us a call today at 352-850-5323!