Diagnosing tree diseases can be difficult. Obviously, trees cannot tell you how they are feeling or that something seems wrong. Nevertheless, they do show signs of illness on their bark, branches, leaves, and trunks. The trick is to recognize these abnormalities and determine what they mean. The following signs of disease may indicate that you need tree service Old Lyme CT.
1. Canker
A canker occurs due to damage or stress from weather conditions, trauma, or fungal infestation. It is a localized dead area that may grow in size to form a lesion. The bark in this area may become discolored. Cankers are especially dangerous to young trees, which may die as a result.
2. Changes to Leaves or Needles
Insect infestation or fungal infection can cause the leaves or needles of the tree to change colors. This may occur in localized areas, forming spots or scabs, or over the entire structure, causing a more uniform change of color that is abnormal. Another thing to watch for are small bumps on the leaves known as insect galls, which form when parasitic larvae inject chemicals into the plants.
3. Dieback
Dieback occurs when the branches at the top of the tree, i.e., the crown, lose their leaves. As the tree disease progresses, the dieback can spread to other areas of the tree. Without leaves, the tree eventually dies because it cannot perform photosynthesis to nourish itself. Emerald ash borer infestation often causes dieback in affected trees.
4. Loss of Leaves or Needles
Of course, it is normal for deciduous trees to lose their leaves in the fall, and coniferous trees shed needles continuously. However, when the loss of leaves occurs out of season, or when the leaves or needles do not grow back, it can be a sign of disease.
A diseased tree can be dangerous. Dead trees or branches are less stable and may fall, potentially causing injuries or property damage.
