The health of your trees plays a major role in protecting the integrity of your landscape. It also contributes to enhanced curb appeal, and safeguards neighboring trees from potential problems. Recognizing the types of diseases that often afflict trees in Georgia is the first step to understanding your yard a bit better — and knowing when it’s time to contact an arborist for assistance. Here are three diseases that you might encounter.

Diseases That Commonly Affect Georgia Trees

1. Root Rot

Root rot impacts the tree’s roots, where it obtains its nutrients and moisture. When infected, the wood can quickly become soft and sponge-like to the touch. You may also notice mushrooms growing around the trunk — typically the only obvious sign that there’s an issue with the tree. Because the problem develops in the soil, it’s quick to spread to neighboring trees. In more severe cases, some that are already weak may require emergency tree removal. Since excess moisture creates an ideal habitat for the infection to thrive and spread, you can prevent root rot by creating a sufficient drainage system in your yard.

2. Fire Blight

Fire blight primarily affects fruit and ornamental trees. If you’re fortunate enough to have pears or apples growing in your yard, you need to be aware of this rapidly-spreading disease. It tends to strike in the spring when conditions are humid and occasionally rainy. Once it affects a single branch, it causes twigs and leaves to blacken and die off. The fruits may produce a wet, milky-looking substance that indicates the disease has spread. Arborists will first assess the severity of the damage. Because it’s such an aggressive disease, tree removal may be necessary. If tree trimming alone will eliminate the infected areas, then they may be able to forgo complete removal.  

3. Powdery Mildew

Powdery mildew is another condition that thrives in warm, steamy weather. Cotton-like spots develop on the leaves, and may be white or gray in appearance. In severe cases, or when left untreated, the affected limbs will die off and eventually impact the tree’s overall health. You can take measures to prevent the problem by spacing your trees far apart to allow for improved airflow and reduced humidity. 

Could your landscape use some extra attention? Homeowners throughout Macon and Milledgeville, GA, trust the skilled arborists at Tidwell’s Tree Service. Offering more than 30 years of experience, the company provides comprehensive tree services, including trimming, mulching, basic maintenance, stump grinding, and emergency tree removal. If you’re concerned about the health of your trees, call (478) 808-7898 or (478) 452-0234 to speak with a knowledgeable arborist today. For more information on their services, visit their website.