Trees are an essential part of any landscape, providing shade, beauty, and even increasing property value. However, like any living organism, trees are susceptible to disease, which can weaken their structure and, in severe cases, lead to death. At A-Unlimited Tree Service, we understand how vital early detection is to saving your trees and maintaining the health of your yard. With over 25 years of experience, our team of expert arborists is here to help you identify and manage tree diseases before they cause irreversible damage. Here are five key ways to spot tree diseases early in the growing season in O’Fallon, IL.
Inspect Leaves for Discoloration and Spots
One of the first signs of tree disease is an unusual change in leaf color. Healthy leaves should be vibrant and consistent in hue, depending on the species. If you notice yellowing, browning, or black spots appearing on leaves, your tree may be suffering from a disease such as anthracnose or leaf blight. Fungal infections often cause irregular patterns of discoloration, while bacterial infections may create water-soaked lesions. Catching these symptoms early allows for proper treatment, such as pruning infected areas or applying fungicides, to prevent the disease from spreading further. Regular tree inspections can help you keep your trees healthy all season long.
Examine Bark for Cracks, Cankers, and Oozing Sap
The bark of a tree serves as its protective barrier against pests and disease. If you notice deep cracks, peeling bark, or areas of sunken tissue (known as cankers), your tree may be under attack from a fungal or bacterial disease. Some infections, such as bacterial wet wood, can cause trees to ooze dark, foul-smelling sap. A tree struggling with an infection may also exhibit a weakened structure, making it more susceptible to storm damage. By routinely checking the bark for signs of distress, you can take early action by trimming infected branches or seeking professional treatment to save the tree before the disease spreads.
Look for Wilting or Unusual Leaf Drop
A healthy tree should have full, lush foliage throughout its growing season. If you notice sudden wilting, curling, or premature leaf drop, your tree could be suffering from a vascular disease like verticillium wilt or Dutch elm disease. These conditions block the tree’s ability to transport water and nutrients, causing sections of the canopy to decline rapidly. Spotting these symptoms early is crucial, as untreated infections can lead to widespread tree death. If you notice abnormal leaf behavior, contact a professional arborist at A-Unlimited Tree Service LLC for an expert diagnosis and treatment plan to restore your tree’s health.
Monitor for Fungal Growth and Mushrooms
Fungi thrive in moist environments and often signal decay or infection within a tree. If you see mushrooms growing at the base of a tree or fungal bodies attached to the trunk or branches, your tree could be suffering from root rot or internal decay. Certain fungi, such as honey fungus or Ganoderma, indicate significant structural damage that could compromise the stability of the tree. Early identification and removal of infected wood can sometimes prevent total tree loss. Regularly checking for fungal growth can help you take swift action and prevent further complications in your landscape.
Observe Branches for Dieback and Weak Growth
Healthy trees exhibit strong, consistent branch growth each season. If you notice sections of your tree where branches appear weak, brittle or dying back without explanation, it may be a sign of disease or pest infestation. Diseases such as fire blight cause branches to blacken and curl, while pests like borers tunnel into the wood, disrupting nutrient flow. Dead or dying branches should be pruned immediately to prevent disease spread and reduce the risk of falling limbs. Keeping an eye on branch health ensures that your trees stay vibrant and structurally sound throughout the growing season.
Rely on A-Unlimited Tree Service LLC to Keep Your Trees Healthy
Keeping your trees healthy requires vigilance and regular maintenance. By learning how to identify early signs of tree disease, homeowners in O’Fallon, IL, can take proactive steps to protect their landscape. Whether it’s inspecting leaves, examining bark, monitoring for fungi, or addressing branch dieback, early intervention is key to preventing widespread tree loss. If you suspect your trees may be suffering from disease, don’t hesitate to contact A-Unlimited Tree Service LLC for expert diagnosis and care. Our team of professional arborists is here to provide the best solutions to keep your trees thriving year after year. Call 618.667.9885 for a free estimate, and let us help you maintain a healthy, beautiful yard.
