Like all living organisms, trees get sick or die. While the average lifespan of a tree can vary depending on its type, other factors like environmental stress, severe weather, insect infestation, and disease can cause unwanted health issues that can eventually harm a tree. Not only can a sick tree affect other nearby trees putting them in potential danger, a sick tree can also cause damage to your home or property if it fails unexpectedly. That’s why it’s important to spot the signs of a sick or dying tree and contact a certified arborist for preventative tree care advice when it comes to saving or removing a hazardous tree.
Symptoms of a Sick or Dying Tree
Assessing the health and safety of a tree is essential when it comes to preventing a hazardous situation from occurring. Below are some common symptoms to look out for that may indicate at sick or dying tree:
Poor structure. Leaning or an odd shape caused by an unnatural growth pattern can indicate potential failure. Severe storms and improper pruning techniques can also cause the structure of a tree to become compromised.
Decay. A tree can fail due to root rot and decay. While hard to diagnose without the help of a certified arborist, signs to look out for include mushrooms, cavities, insect damage, dead branches and soft, breakable wood.
Weak Unions. When two branches of equal or lesser size originate from the same union, they are often weaker and more prone to splitting. In this situation, a certified arborist may choose to cut one branch back or remove it altogether to prevent a hazardous situation from happening.
Cracks. While some cracks can be considered normal, others are not. Deep cracks, that extend deep or completely through the trunk may indicate structural failure resulting in the removal of the entire tree.
Cankers. Stress or infections caused by bacteria/fungi through an open wound can result in dead spots or cankers. While cankers may not be enough to warrant the removal of an entire tree, it’s important to have them assessed by a certified arborist to ensure a tree is structurally sound and has the ability to cope for years to come.
Deadwood. Broken branches or sections of a tree that are dead is considered deadwood. Deadwood can be especially dangerous because it can fall unexpectedly and cause extensive harm or damage. To prevent a dangerous situation from happening deadwood should be professionally removed as soon as possible.
Preventative Tree Care
Prevention is key when it comes to maintaining a healthy tree. Below are some preventative tree care guidelines to make sure the trees on your property are well-maintained and as safe as possible:
- Avoid tree injury during yard work. Open wounds caused by weed trimmers are prone to disease and infection.
- Avoid cutting or harming any exposed roots. Damaged roots can be lethal.
- Depending on your climate, it’s important to adequately water your trees based upon the following Arbor Day Foundation guidelines.
- Keep an eye on the weather. Damage caused by wind, rain, snow or ice require immediate attention to avoid any health or safety concerns.
- Have your trees professionally pruned. Regularly pruning will ensure the health of your trees providing them with the greatest possible growing conditions while keeping them structurally sound and aesthetically pleasing.
Contact Westcoast Tree Care
If you suspect your tree is sick or unhealthy, contact Westcoast Tree Care today. Our certified arborist is trained in all aspects of arboriculture and will assess the health and stability of your tree based on its type, size, location and overall appearance. Don’t wait until it’s too late. If there is any way to save your tree we will do our best to help while providing you with a no-cost, no-obligation quote and answering any questions you may have. Contact us at 1.800.767.8733 (TREE).
