Spring is a time of renewal, with trees waking up from winter dormancy and bursting into new growth. While this season brings fresh foliage and blossoms, it also comes with challenges. Trees are particularly vulnerable during this transition, making it important to watch for signs of stress, disease, or pest activity.
A tree that looks healthy from a distance may be hiding early symptoms of trouble. That’s why Westcoast Tree Care would like to provide you with the following list of common spring tree problems so you can recognize potential issues early and ensure your trees stay healthy throughout the year.
Fungal Diseases in Wet Conditions
Spring in the Pacific Northwest often means wet weather. While trees need moisture to thrive, excess water creates the perfect conditions for fungal diseases. One of the most common issues is leaf spot, which causes dark or discolored spots on leaves. Anthracnose is another fungal disease that affects many species, leading to curled, scorched-looking leaves and early defoliation.
Fungi thrive in humid environments where moisture lingers on leaves and branches. If you notice unusual leaf discoloration, wilting, or premature dropping, the tree could be dealing with a fungal infection. At Westcoast Tree Care, we can assess the severity of the issue and recommend professional treatment to protect the tree.
Pest Infestations Emerging in Warmer Weather
As temperatures rise, insects become more active, and some of them can cause serious damage to trees. Aphids, borers, and scale insects are common culprits. These pests feed on leaves, bark, or sap, weakening the tree and making it more vulnerable to disease.
Borer insects are particularly harmful because they tunnel into the tree, disrupting the flow of nutrients and water. Signs of infestation include small holes in the bark, sawdust-like debris at the base, or sudden dieback in parts of the tree. At Westcoast Tree Care, we can determine if pest management is needed and recommend treatment options that target the specific infestation without harming beneficial insects.
Weak or Dead Branches from Winter Damage
Winter storms can leave trees with hidden damage that only becomes apparent in spring. Heavy snow, ice, and strong winds may have caused branches to crack or weaken. These limbs might not fall immediately but can break off unexpectedly once the tree starts growing again.
Dead or weakened branches are not just a safety risk; they can also make the tree more susceptible to disease and pests. Signs of winter damage include branches that fail to produce new leaves, peeling bark, or visible cracks in the wood. At Westcoast Tree Care, we can inspect the tree, remove hazardous limbs, and ensure the tree is structurally sound moving forward.
Root Stress from Soil Saturation
Spring rains can oversaturate the soil, leading to root stress. Trees rely on their roots for stability and nutrient absorption, but too much moisture can deprive them of oxygen. This can result in poor growth, yellowing leaves, and even root rot.
Compacted soil from foot traffic or construction projects can make the problem worse by preventing water from draining properly. If a tree seems to be struggling despite having plenty of moisture, the root system may be in distress. At Westcoast Tree Care, we can evaluate soil conditions and recommend solutions to improve drainage and restore root health.
Delayed Leaf Growth or Bud Development
While most trees start producing new leaves in early spring, some may lag behind. Delayed growth can be a sign of underlying stress, disease, or root damage. Trees that were affected by drought, pests, or extreme weather in the previous season may struggle to recover in spring.
If a tree remains bare while others around it are thriving, there may be an issue beneath the surface. At Westcoast Tree Care, we can assess whether the tree is simply slow to leaf out or if there is a deeper problem affecting its health. Catching these issues early can prevent further decline and help the tree regain its strength.
Vancouver Tree Care
Spring is a critical time to evaluate tree health and address any emerging issues. Trees that show signs of stress, disease, or damage need professional attention to prevent problems from worsening. Regular inspections by a certified arborist can help identify risks before they become serious.
At Westcoast Tree Care, we specialize in assessing tree health and providing expert care to keep your landscape safe and thriving. Whether you’ve noticed signs of disease, pest activity, or structural concerns, our team can provide the solutions your trees need this season. Contact us by filling out our online form or calling 1.800.767.8733 for a no-cost, no-obligation quote for any of our Vancouver tree care services.
