Why are branches falling off my tree? If you’re noticing a trend here, don’t sound the alarm just yet or try random fixes. As the go-to tree services in Gatlinburg, TN, the team at Pro Tree of Knoxville knows a thing or two about unusual arboreal behavior.
Keep reading as we explore the possible reasons your tree is losing branches, what to do, and when to act.
Is It Just Natural Pruning?
Did you know that trees sometimes shed branches to self-prune? This can happen when the plant wants to conserve energy.
When parts of the canopy consume more food than they produce, the tree will focus on growing its healthier, more productive parts. Gradually, those other connections weaken – and the offending branch will fall off.
Is It a Stress Response?
The surrounding environment doesn’t always cooperate. Your tree could lose a few branches under extreme conditions, such as:
Prolonged Droughts
The Volunteer State has faced very dry periods in the past. Generally, trees have large stores of moisture, but they can only hold so much. During extended dry spells, they might shed branches to reduce water loss and focus on survival.
Heat Waves
Heat and drought stress often go hand in hand. The tree will amputate its own limbs when it gets too hot to keep its other internal tissues properly circulated. Don’t you shed layers on those sweltering summer days?
Poor Soil Quality
Why are branches falling off my tree? Trouble brewing underneath could be preventing the plant from accessing a balanced supply of minerals and nutrients. Proper aeration and moisture are also important, or the root system will suffer – and the rest of the tree could follow suit.
Is It Underlying Structural Weakness?
The following circumstances may compromise your tree’s stability:
- Weather: Wind damage from passing storms or even lightning strikes can do a number on your yard specimens. Make it a habit to keep an eye on the forecast and inspect your trees after the rough weather subsides.
- Disease: Infection is another potential culprit. Many viruses, bacteria, and fungi enter trees from broken branches or cuts and slowly weaken them over time.
- Pest infestation: Longhorn beetles, southern pine sawyers, flathead borers, and other insects make homes in trees by creating tiny tunnels that compromise the tree’s structure. Even squirrels can strip bark or chew branches.
Don’t forget about human activity, either. Accidental hits from a lawnmower or disturbance from construction work can damage a tree. It all adds up.
Should You Intervene in Your Tree’s Health?
You should thoroughly check your tree’s condition, but bring in a specialist when you notice:
- Excessive branch dieback
- Wilting leaves
- Foliage color changes outside of the usual seasonal shifts
- Cankers or other fungal growth
- Flaking bark
Get More Guidance From Our Dependable Arborists in Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Why are branches falling off my tree? Instead of playing guessing games with your landscape’s health, leave it to Pro Tree of Knoxville to give you a straightforward answer. Dial (865)-294-0062 — or read more of our blog for topics like fertilizing and cutting overhanging tree branches on your property.