Tips for Checking the Health of Your Trees

Southern Star Tree Service is a premier company committed to delivering top-quality tree service for our community, but tree service is not the only thing we provide. We also offer tips and guides on how to maintain trees on your own. In this article, we will go over some tips on how to check the condition of your trees. This article is not exhaustive, so may still have some questions after reading. If you have any questions or concerns, then feel free to call Southern Star Tree Service in Atlanta GA to get in touch with a courteous professional. We are always happy to help.

Check Up on The Central Leader

A tree’s central leader is the main upright stem. It adds strength and stability to the tree’s structure. If you want to ensure that the tree grows upright, then make sure to maintain this central leader by pruning or removing competing branches. 
More than one leader will cause a fork at the top and may eventually cause the tree to split, creating a wound that insects and diseases will infiltrate. That said, there are some trees that can exist, and even thrive, with more than one leader. These include fruit trees as well as some topiary and bonsai trees.

Inspect the Trunk Health

Continuing with stability, let’s take a look at the trunk of the tree. With the exception of some trees, the bark of the tree should not come loose or peel. It should be free of fungi and moss. There should also be no large cracks, holes, or open wounds. Insects and diseases will attack from these vulnerable points. Cover these openings with a tree guard if they are large.

Examine the Color, Shape, and Size of Leaves

This may be the easiest way to detect a problem with the health of your tree. Though evergreens are green year-round, most deciduous trees will have green leaves in the spring and the summer, and yellow, orange, or red leaves in the fall. Be wary of yellow leaves in the spring and summer unless the tree naturally produces those colors. Nutrient and water deficiency can stunt the size of leaves and leave them misshaped and discolored.

Check for Annual Growth

A healthy tree will grow every year. It might grow faster during its younger years, but the growth should continue. Stunted growth is an indication of a problem with the tree. Compare the distance between the current season’s buds and its last. Also measure the girth of the trunk as it should expand in thickness every year. Even a tiny expansion is good news.

Look for Dead or Broken Branches

Branches are going to die or break through the life of the tree. In fact, we recommend deliberate pruning and trimming to ensure proper growth of the tree. Prune dead and broken branches as soon as they appear because these branches can be an invitation for insects and diseases. Southern Star Tree Service is happy to help with pruning and trimming your trees. We are just one call away.