Trees of all sizes and varieties can add great beauty and character to your outdoor space. However, when those structures become sick, they can pose a threat to the health and vitality of the rest of your landscape. If you recognize the following signs in your yard, have a tree service technician investigate.

How to Tell if Your Tree Is Sick

1. Leaf Changes

Leaves can change dramatically if the tree is sick. One of the most apparent signs of a problem is that the leaves fall during the offseason. You shouldn’t generally experience leaf loss during the spring or summer, so take notice and contact a tree service professional right away if you discover a pile in the yard when it’s warm outside. Another sign of an issue is leaf discoloration. If they appear brown or yellow, there may be an issue with root rot or fungus overtaking the soil.

2. Bark Damage

On healthy trees, the bark is stable and strong. However, the bark on a diseased tree can lose its integrity abruptly, peeling away or falling off in large chunks. A small amount of bark loss on occasion is normal for some structures, but be alert if your tree loses far more than that.

Another issue that might affect the bark is the presence of odorous fluid seeping out of the surface. If it leaves behind a dark finish, it could be due to a condition called alcoholic slime flux.

3. Branch Failure

Trees will undoubtedly lose some branches during a heavy rainstorm or after it snows, but they shouldn’t drop for no reason at all. If they do, it’s likely a sign that the tree has lost its integrity due to disease. Look for leafless branches that may appear to be rotten or have some other visible damage on their surfaces. Your tree service technician can assess the root cause.

Homeowners throughout Wharton, NJ, trust in the professionals at Woodpecker Tree Service for all of their tree service needs. This company offers everything from stump removal and tree pruning to general tree care. Visit them online to find out how they can improve the condition of your residential or commercial property, or call (973) 641-3639 to schedule an appointment.