The Top 5 Signs Your Tree Needs Professional Care

Why Your Tree Needs Professional Care

Trees are not only beautiful additions to our surroundings, but they also play a vital role in maintaining the balance of our ecosystem. However, just like any living thing, trees face issues that require professional care to keep them healthy and pest-free.

It’s crucial to recognize the signs that indicate our trees require assistance, ranging from structural issues, stress, infestations, and root issues. In this article, we will explore the top five signs that indicate your tree may require professional care. Identifying these signs early can help preserve the health and beauty of your trees while ensuring the safety of your property and loved ones.

Structural Issues

One of the key indicators that your tree may need professional care is the presence of structural issues. These issues can present in various ways, such as leaning to one side, visibly weakened or cracked branches, or the formation of deep cavities in the trunk.

These signs suggest the tree’s structural integrity may be compromised, making it prone to falling or causing damage during storms or high winds. Other signs to look for include broken branches, loose or missing bark, or leaf coverage. Work with an experienced yard care specialist to accurately assess the severity of these issues and provide appropriate solutions.

Person touches branch with hand

Abnormal Growth Patterns

Unusual growth patterns in your tree can indicate underlying problems, including stunted growth, sparse foliage, or an excessive number of dead or dying branches. These abnormalities can stem from issues like disease, nutrient deficiencies, or pest infestations. Safari Tree tree care specialists can accurately diagnose the problem, identify the cause, and recommend appropriate treatments to restore the tree’s health. Timely intervention is necessary to prevent the spread of diseases and ensure the tree remains vibrant and robust.

Fungal or Pest Infestations

When you notice the presence of fungal growth or pests on your tree, it’s a clear sign that professional care is required. Fungi can cause various diseases, such as root rot or trunk decay, which can weaken the tree’s structure. Additionally, pests like beetles, borers, or caterpillars can cause significant damage to the tree’s leaves, bark, or even the inner wood. One of the most common signs of fungal impact is the growth of tree cankers.

Tree cankers are dead areas of bark found on a tree’s trunk, branches, or twigs that look sunken and discolored. While several different outside agents can cause it, the canker will open the tree up to further bacterial and fungal issues. Insects will also pounce on any weaknesses found in the bark and can cause further damage to this area.

A tree canker on a tree

Signs of Disease

Trees, just like any living organism, are susceptible to diseases. Recognizing signs of disease is essential to address the problem promptly and prevent its spread to other nearby trees. Common signs include discolored or wilting leaves, premature leaf drop, cankers on the trunk or branches, and oozing sap. These symptoms can be caused by bacterial or fungal infections, as well as environmental stressors. Safari Tree can identify the disease affecting your tree and devise an appropriate treatment plan to halt the spread.

Root Issues

The health of a tree’s roots directly impacts its overall well-being. Signs of root issues, such as exposed or decaying roots, soil heaving around the base of the trunk, or a sudden decline in the tree’s health, should not be ignored. Root problems can result from compacted soil, improper drainage, or damage caused by construction or nearby excavation.

Common instances of root damage happen when companies working on buried lines smash through existing root systems. This happens a lot during sidewalk repair and soil leveling, as the root system will usually extend outward many times the tree’s height.

Let Safari Tree Assist With Your Tree Maintenance

Are you experiencing any of these 5 warning signs? We can help with your essential yard maintenance decisions and determine how best to protect your trees year-round from the worst pests and diseases. We offer several services to keep your plants healthy, including disease control, pest maintenance, and bed monitoring. To get a free estimate, contact Safari Tree today.