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Even if you properly water and care for the trees in your yard, they will still be susceptible to diseases. Some eat the trunk from the inside out while others nibble away at the leaves or grow on the branches. If your trees are struggling, can you spot the signs? Below, H & H Tree Service in New London, NC, shares three diseases to look for that could require tree removal.

You Might Need Tree Removal If You Spot These 3 Diseases

1. Emerald Ash Borer

If you have ash trees on your property, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on them. Emerald ash borer disease occurs when beetle larvae grow in trees’ bark. The larvae eat the tissue that permits the tree to bring water and nutrients up from the roots. An infected tree will typically die within three to five years of infection, and the emerald ash borer can move to the next tree swiftly. With a timely diagnosis, pesticides could treat the issue, but you may need a full tree removal to prevent the bug from spreading to the rest of your yard if the disease has progressed.

2. Butt Rot

tree removalIf you have hardwood species like red maple, oak, and hickory, you may spot butt rot. This type of decay occurs at the portion of the tree trunk that meets the ground. According to the North Carolina Forestry Library, rot like this contributes to the loss of millions of square footage of hardwood timber annual, and it is the main reason for tree removal in the state.

3. Dogwood Anthracnose

Flowering dogwood trees can catch this infection that starts in the leaves. It then moves to the branches, killing off each section as it goes. Trees in shaded areas are more likely to catch this infection, as are those at higher elevations. You can protect trees around one that has dogwood anthracnose by aggressively pruning the affected areas and adding fungicide. If you notice the tissue and trunk are being affected, it may be too late to save. 

Do a monthly walk among your trees to inspect them for signs of diseases like those above. If you’re unsure whether your trees are healthy or need some help, contact a tree care professional. To set up an appointment with H & H Tree Service, call (704) 463-0353. Visit the website to learn about their dead wood and tree removal, stump grinding, cutting, and pruning services. Ask about a free estimate so you can fit their expert tree services in your budget.

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