Like any living creature, trees are susceptible to disease. Unfortunately, however, they are large and heavy enough to put people and property at risk if they weaken due to sickness. To help you keep your family and home safe, below are signs you need immediate tree care.

How to Tell if a Tree Is Diseased

1. Seeping Fluid

Slime flux is a bacterial disease common in elm, cottonwood, poplar, boxelder, ash, aspen, fruitless mulberry, and oak trees. It results from an infected wound to the bark due to insects or pruning. Foul-smelling sap oozes from the tree and leaves dark stains on the exterior. It may even pool around the base of the trunk. This infected, fermented sap is both toxic to the tree and attracts pests like fleas, ants, and maggots. Treatment involves putting rubbing alcohol and bleach on the problem areas, as well as general tree care tasks like watering, mulching, and fertilizing.

2. Yellow Leaves

Yellow or brownish leaves during spring and summer often indicate armillaria root rot. This disease results from a fungus in the soil that attacks the roots and causes them to break down. As the disease progresses, major limbs may die, and the tree itself will eventually need to be cut down after a few seasons. This disease affects hundreds of species. However, larch and birch trees are known to be resistant. There is no full-proof treatment for the issue, but excavation near the root crown can help. 

3. Peeling Bark

The bark protects the core of the tree and—perhaps most importantly—transmits moisture and nutrients from the soil to the upper limbs. If it becomes compromised, the tree won't receive the water and minerals it needs to survive. The loss of small portions is normal, but if large sheets begin peeling off, contact a tree care professional right away.

If you suspect you have one or more diseased trees on your property, contact T & L Tree and Landscape in Macedon, NY, for expert tree care. They have been serving the Greater Rochester area and Monroe County for more than 50 years and offer 24/7 emergency services. Visit their website to learn more about their services, or call (585) 223-3190 to schedule an appointment.