Trees are a vital part of our ecosystem, providing shade and oxygen while also helping to improve water quality. However, like any living thing, trees can fall victim to disease. That’s why Westcoast Tree Care would like to discuss the following five deadliest hardwood tree diseases. These diseases can cause serious damage to your trees, so it is important to be aware of them and take steps to protect your property.
1. Armillaria Root Rot
Armillaria root rot is a fungal disease that affects many types of trees, including hardwoods. The fungus attacks the roots of the tree and can spread to the trunk and branches, causing them to die. This disease is often fatal to trees, and there is no cure. Symptoms of Armillaria root rot include yellowing or dying leaves, wilting branches, and mushrooms growing at the base of the tree. If you suspect your tree has this disease, it is important to contact a Medford tree care professional immediately.
There are several ways to prevent Armillaria root rot, including:
- Avoiding injury to tree roots
- Improving drainage around trees
- Maintaining a layer of mulch
- Avoiding compacting soil around trees
2. Oak Wilt
Oak wilt is a fungal disease that primarily affects oak trees. The fungus attacks the water-conducting tissues of the tree, causing it to wilt and die. Oak wilt can spread quickly and is often fatal to trees. Symptoms of oak wilt include wilting leaves, brown or black leaves, and dying branches. If you suspect your tree has this disease, it is important to contact a Medford tree care professional immediately.
There are several ways to prevent oak wilt, including:
- Prune oak trees during the dormant season
- Avoid wounding oak trees
- Remove infected trees promptly
- Do not transport firewood from infected areas
- Maintain a layer of mulch around trees
- Water during dry periods
- Protect trees from insect damage
- Apply fungicides to vulnerable trees
3. Anthracnose
Anthracnose is a fungal disease that affects many types of trees, including hardwoods. The fungus attacks the leaves and twigs of the tree, causing them to die. This disease is often fatal to trees, and there is no cure. Symptoms of anthracnose include wilting leaves, dying branches, and black or brown spots on leaves. If you suspect your tree has this disease, it is important to contact a Medford tree care professional immediately.
There are several ways to prevent anthracnose, including:
- Prune affected branches
- Remove dead leaves
- Apply fungicides to vulnerable trees
- Water during dry periods
- Maintain a layer of mulch around trees
4. Dutch Elm Disease
Dutch elm disease is a fungal disease that primarily affects elm trees. Much like Oak Wilt, the fungus attacks the water-conducting tissues of the tree, causing it to wilt and die. Dutch elm disease can also spread quickly and is often fatal to trees. Symptoms of Dutch elm disease include wilting leaves, brown or black leaves, and dying branches. The best way to prevent Dutch elm disease is to contact a Medford tree care professional to care for your trees.
5. Cotton Root Rot
Cotton root rot is a fungal disease that affects many types of trees, including hardwoods. The fungus attacks the roots of the tree and can spread to the trunk and branches, causing them to die. Symptoms of cotton root rot include yellowing or dying leaves, wilting branches, and mushrooms growing at the base of the tree. Cotton root rot can be maintained by keeping your trees well-maintained throughout the winter and spring seasons.
Why Are Trees Susceptible to Disease?
There are many reasons why trees may be susceptible to disease. Some of the most common include:
- Poor drainage
- Compacted soil
- Insect infestation
- Maintaining a layer of mulch
- Watering during dry periods
It is important to be aware of these diseases and take steps to protect your property. If you think your tree may be infected, contact the certified arborist at Westcoast Tree Care immediately. We will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend a course of treatment. Taking action early can save your tree’s life.
Why Hire an Arborist?
An arborist is a trained tree care professional who can provide many services, including:
- Pruning
- Fertilizing
- Insect and disease control
- Tree removal
An arborist can also provide you with advice on how to best care for your trees. They will be able to help you identify potential problems and take steps to prevent them. If you would like more information about the tree care services we provide, contact Westcoast Tree Care today by filling out our online form or give us a call at 1.800.767.8733.
