How To Identify The Signs And Symptoms of Tree Stress In Your Yard
Sometimes it’s easy to spot a stressed tree or tree stress. You can tell by looking at it if it may be suffering from a disease or a lack of nutrients. But how do you know?
Signs of a stressed tree include
- Canopy Dieback
- Trunk Cracks or Splits
- Leaning
- Leaf Drop
- Wilting or Brown Leaves
So, let’s take a look at all of the signs your tree may be experiencing stress and what you can do to help your tree survive.
Canopy Dieback
Canopy dieback is characterized by two primary symptoms. The first is a significant thinning of the tree’s foliage, sometimes accompanied by yellowing, especially obvious in the tree’s upper canopy. 
The second primary symptom is the unusual presence of shoots appearing along a tree’s trunk. These fast-growing shoots (or suckers) sport dense green foliage but represent a recovery method by which the tree attempts to save itself.
Tree Trunk Cracks or Splits
Cracks in tree trunks can be one of the major indicators of a stressed or
unstable tree. Most cracks develop from the improper closure of wounds. They can also happen when weak branch unions split. Cracks in branches, stems, or roots will form both horizontally and vertically.
Your Tree Leans To One Side
If you have a tree that is dead or dying it may develop a lean. This can
indicate instability in its roots, trunk, or branches caused by disease, wind, or improper planting. You may need a certified arborist to look at it to determine if your tree can be saved.
Leaf Drop
Leaf drop is a premature falling off of your tree’s leaves. It’s typically caused by pests or diseases.
Wilting Or Brown Leaves
Typically, sun exposure causes brown leaves and it’s most commonly known as leaf scorch.
But it’s not just the sun that brings it on, other causes include:
- Drought conditions
- Over-fertilization
- Root damage
- High wind exposure
All of this can stress your tree and leave it vulnerable to the sun.
Safari Tree Can Help
If you think you may have a stressed tree in your yard, contact Safari Tree today. Our experts can handle problems with any and all species of trees growing in Michigan. Our team handles everything from tree diseases to soil compaction and pest control.
Safari Tree offers a 7-step tree healthcare program perfectly designed for Michigan’s four-season climate. We take the steps necessary to make sure your trees thrive all summer long.
