KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Understand how to access the condition of the tree
- Discover what actions to take
- Learn about early prevention and clean up
Is your yard’s tree losing its leaves too early? Are entire branches suddenly falling? Or have you noticed mushrooms growing on the trunk or the roots? Things like this are a clear indicator that the tree is suffering from diseases.
Immediate action is necessary in situations like these because trees like these are not just unattractive but also dangerous. They might drop branches or fall entirely, damaging your property or hurting someone.
No one wants that, right? This is where you need to know how to handle this problem, and taking action early can save you time, money, and stress.
Let’s dive into this article and discover how one can assess the situation, take actions according to it, and prevent risks early.
Assess the Tree’s Condition
Take a very close look at the tree(s). That’s the very first step. While some issues are obvious, others need a little more attention. It’s easy to miss the key issue at times. Look out for:
- Falling or dead branches
- Cracks in the trunk
- Peeling bark
- Spots that look hollow or soft
Even leaves are the smallest of signs – if they brown prematurely, fall off out of season, or show abnormal spots.
You must look at the entire tree. Check whether the problem is limited to one branch or if it’s spread throughout the tree. One dead limb might be fairly simple to fix. Significant damage – especially widespread damage – will probably mean the tree cannot be saved.
If you’re in doubt, call a certified arborist. A professional will tell you whether the tree can heal or if removal is the safest option.
Take Action
With an understanding of the tree’s condition, it’s time to get started. Pruning might be enough for small issues. But removing diseased branches is a tougher job. This is necessary to stop the spread and give the tree the opportunity to recover. Cut cleanly. You’ll need to use sharp tools in this process. Keep your equipment in good shape, including the use of a reliable chainsaw sharpener, which is a must-have item. Your job will be considerably cleaner and safer.
Removal is the only choice if the disease has taken over most of the tree. A weakened tree may fall unexpectedly. Especially the case in stronger winds or storms. Large tree removal is serious work, so hire a licensed tree service if needed. Any additional cost is usually worth the peace of mind.
Prevention and Cleanup
Preventing future issues starts with good tree care – and remember, prevention is always better than a cure! Water trees during those dry spells, but don’t overdo it. Mulch around the base to nourish roots and hold moisture. Keep a few inches between the tree and the mulch. Timely inspections help catch problems early on – long before they become severe.
After pruning or removal, clean up debris completely. Diseased wood left on the ground attracts pests. It also spreads issues to other plants. Read up on local procedures. This knowledge is important to dispose of debris. Such a task must be done immediately if the disease is known to spread easily.
So, in simple words, dealing with a diseased tree isn’t an easy task. You need to protect your yard and your home, so timely precautions must be taken. Follow the steps highlighted above to keep your landscape healthy and safe.
How can you tell if a tree has a disease?
There are many signs, such as discolored (yellow/brown) or spotting leaves, premature leaf drop, or thinning, sparse foliage.
What causes a tree to become diseased?
Tree diseases are mainly caused by pathogens such as fungi, bacteria, and viruses.
Can humans get diseases from diseased trees?
Yes, humans can contract infections through diseased trees, though it is rare.
What does a rotting tree look like?
They usually look soft, spongy, with a cracked wood-like look, often accompanied by visible mushrooms, conks, or bracket fungi on the trunk or roots.
