Dead trees are not only an eye sore but a negative force on the environment. They also cost you money to have them removed and new ones planted. Sometimes, there are visible signs a tree is not in the best condition before decay sets in. There will be several tell-tale signs on how to know if a tree is dying.
Chlorosis
Chlorosis occurs when a tree or plant lacks chlorophyll. The outcome of this is the yellowing of the leaves. This state happens due to a lack of nutrients to synthesize sufficient chlorophyll. It is caused because of damage to the roots or poor drainage.
Early Leaf Drop
One of the other signs that a tree is dying is early leaf drop. Leaves starting to prematurely fall from a tree is a bad sign. That is particularly so if they are still green because it could mean the tree has hydraulic failure.
Foliage Wilt
The wilting of a tree’s leaves is a sign that a tree is dying. It can indicate hydraulic failure, which, if left unattended, might result in a quick decline of the tree.
Leaf Deformities
A tree stressed by infestation or disease is likely to produce smaller and deformed leaves. This is a tell-tale sign pointing down the path to the declination of the tree.
Dead Branches
Dead branches are not necessarily a way to tell if a tree is dead. Some species are self-pruning so they can appear sick but are instead shedding unwanted baggage. That said, branches that look diseased should be removed by pruning.
Tree Structure
A leaning tree is a sign of deteriorating health or severe root damage. In essence, healthy trees usually grow uniformly with a strong branch-to-trunk union. In situations where the tree is leaning, the best possible way to prevent damage to the property is through early tree removal.
Poorly Drained Soil
If your soil is poorly drained, those porous areas fill up with water, leading to all kinds of plant growth challenges. Surface roots are easily destroyed by foot traffic, especially if they have not matured sturdily. Diseases or infestations emanating from poorly drained soil can lead to rot.
Disease and Insect Infestation
Many times, damage occurs from repeated infestations over growing seasons. These may be from caterpillars, beetles, aphids, borers, and adelgids. The ideal way of preventing attacks from any of the above insects is by promoting the health and well-being of your trees and treating them with the right chemicals.
Tree Bark Changes
Bark is the outside layer of a tree that protects it from harsh environmental conditions resulting from pests, weather, and diseases. Bark should seamlessly wrap around the tree trunk and limb. Opportunist mechanisms such as cankers, deep cracks, woodpeckers, and ropes may accelerate the declination of a tree.
Knowing the numerous indicators of tree decline can significantly increase the chances of saving your tree. Once these are apparent, you need tree services in Cumming, GA, to determine how to save it or the next steps. Contact Acorn Tree Care to schedule a visit to assess your trees.
