As homeowners, let’s be honest: we don’t tend to check out the conditions of our trees unless there is a problem. The key to preventing tree loss, however, is to spot the signs of disease early on so that you can take preventative measures – both to restore your tree’s health and so the disease doesn’t spread from one tree to the next. As we head into the winter season and the trees are bare, now is an excellent time to hire our tree trimming in Mount Pleasant service to trim and check that your trees are in good health.
How to Spot Signs of Tree Disease
Changes in the Bark
One of the most common ways to spot disease is by looking at the bark of the tree. If there is any bark fungus on the limbs that has either black or white spots, that is a clear sign that you should call a tree service. Things like crumbling, peeling, brittle, spongy, or cracking bark spots are all signs that your tree might not be so healthy.
Cracks in the Trunk Itself
Not all cracks are a sign of disease, but if you see a significant split that goes deeper than just the surface, then it is time to call a tree service. A tree that is severely cracked isn’t just saying that its health might be compromised; its integrity might be, too, which can be a serious issue for you and your property.
Reduced Leaves and Branches
Although this one is a little harder to spot during the winter due to your trees losing some leaves and branches, if you notice that your tree didn’t really produce as many leaves as it has before or they fell faster than you would have thought, that might be a symptom of disease. And if you noticed this happening in the spring and summer, that is a sure sign that it is time to call a tree care service.
Fungal Disease
Fungal diseases are not only one of the most common types of tree conditions; they are also the most damaging. When a tree is infected by fungi, it might be possible for the spores to become airborne, which can threaten your entire landscape. If the disease has already infected the tree’s root system, then the tree can become sick. Signals of a fungi infection include white substances that form on the bark after it is chipped, or the presence of mushrooms.
Pests
There are many pests that you need to be concerned with in the South Carolina area, one of which are termites. In general, look for wood shavings, things that look like gun holes, or cut holes in the tree to signal that a pest has taken up residence in your tree.
Root Rot
Another condition to look for is root rot. Root rot can lead to damage to the most important part of the health of your tree: its ability to absorb nutrients and water. Rotting is almost always caused by a fungal infection that has entered the root system and can lead to yellowing or wilted leaves in the summer. The best way to prevent spreading is by hiring a tree-trimming Mount Pleasant service every spring.
As we head into the fall, winter is close on its heels. With the leaves beginning to fall, now is an excellent time to have your tree trimmed. While they’re there, have your tree trimming service in Mount Pleasant do a thorough inspection to ensure that your trees are disease-free and ready for the winter months ahead. Contact Absolute Trees today to schedule your fall service!
