Signs of Common Tree Diseases

Healthy trees with vibrant leaves and solid roots, branches, and trunk are beautiful fixtures for any garden. The same cannot be said about diseased and unhealthy trees which can make your yard look disheveled and untidy. Though it is fairly easy to look at a tree and notice that something is not quite right, it is more challenging to put your finger on the problem. Hiring an ISA-certified arborist like those at Southern Star Tree Service is one surefire way to figure out what is going on with your tree. For those who have a strict budget or a curiosity for arboriculture, we put together this article going over some signs of common tree diseases and infestations. If you have any particular questions or would like to hire an ISA-certified arborist, then call Southern Star Tree Service today.

Common Tree Diseases

Understanding common tree diseases and their signs can help you act, whether it be by hiring a professional or by taking matters into your own hands. These are some common tree diseases:

• Leaf Rust: Orange or red leaves might be normal during fall, but orange or reddish spotting on tree leaves can indicate leaf rust.
• Fire Blight: This contagious disease caused by the bacterium Erwinia Amylovora gives trees a burned or charred look, as if it was touched by fire.
• Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease presents itself on leaves of your plants and trees. Affected trees look as if they have been sprinkled with flour.
• Gall: Picture warts or tumors on plants. This is what gall looks like. Gall can be caused by fungi, viruses, bacteria, and various parasites.
• Witch’s Broom: As the name suggests, this is a deformity in which a dense mass of branches grow from a single point. Though they form great homes for birds, witch’s brooms can be unaesthetic.
• Canker: Humans suffer from cankers and so do trees. A canker is generally an open wound that has been infected by a fungal or bacterial pathogen. They will look like oval or elongated lesions on the trunk or branches of the tree.
• Oak Wilt: This fungal disease is specific to oak trees and usually starts at the top of the tree, rapidly wilting leaves and turning them brown.
• Root Rot: Planting on poorly drain sites can leave your tree susceptible to this fungal disease that makes your tree look as if it is drought-stressed with pale green or yellow leaves.

Course of Action

Dealing with tree diseases can be overwhelming but knowing what you are dealing with should at least lighten the load. There are plenty of products on the market that are designed to deal with many of these common diseases. You might even want to hire a professional to take care of the problem. Products, pruning, or a tree removal are some possible solutions.

Call the Professionals

If you prefer to have an ISA-certified arborist bring your tree back to good health, then call Southern Star Tree Service to schedule your flexible appointment. We are always happy to help liven up your yard.