As spring arrives, it’s the perfect time to give your landscape a fresh look and check on the health of your trees and shrubs. Regular inspections can help ensure your plants stay healthy and thrive.
Here’s a quick checklist to guide you through potential tree-related issues and what to do if you notice them.
Is Your Tree Showing Little Growth?
If you have noticed that your tree isn’t growing very much, there could be several reasons for its slow development.
- Trees can be sensitive to their environment, and factors like soil conditions, water availability, deep planting, and proper care all play significant roles.
- Recently planted trees will undergo a period of transplant shock that will result in reduced growth. Normal growth will resume once these trees recover if they are properly planted in appropriate locations.
- It’s important to closely monitor a tree’s progress and seek advice from a certified professional arborist to rule out any underlying issues or the potential steps you can take to help the tree improve.
Broken Branch Tips or Branches on the Ground
Have you noticed broken branches or tips lying around under your trees? This is often the result of damage from wild animals such as squirrels, deer, or rabbits.
- While this can be frustrating, it usually doesn’t cause serious harm to your tree’s overall health. The broken branches are typically the result of animals chewing on or climbing the tree, but unless you see more severe damage, it’s not something to worry about. Keep an eye on the tree to ensure it doesn’t develop more significant issues.
Bark Damage at the Base of the Tree
Inspecting the base of your trees for bark damage is essential. Bark can become damaged in several ways.
- Sometimes, string trimmers from last year’s mowing season can accidentally cause damage. Other times, small animals may chew on the bark. Both scenarios can lead to weakened tree health.
- To prevent further damage, install a trunk guard or apply mulch around the base of the tree. These actions will help protect the bark and improve the overall health of your tree.
Changes in Leaf Color or Spotting
As your trees start to leaf out in the spring, take a closer look at their foliage.
- If you notice yellowing, brown spots, or irregular patterns, it could be an indication of a health issue. Trees can sometimes suffer from fungal infections, nutrient deficiencies, or other stressors, and these irregularities in the leaves can be a sign of something more serious.
- It’s crucial to have a certified arborist diagnose any potential issues so you can take the proper steps to remedy the problem early on.
Keep an eye out for these common tree issues and act when necessary to ensure that your landscape remains vibrant and healthy. Consult with an ATE certified arborist to maintain the long-term health of your trees.
