Trees across East Tennessee are susceptible to a wide variety of diseases that can compromise a tree’s health and the safety of people and property. Of course, the best course for dealing with tree disease is early action when signs and symptoms present themselves.
Pro Tree of Knoxville, the top provider of certified tree services in Dandridge, TN, and across the region provides the following signs that help answer the question, “How do you know if a tree is diseased?”
Discolored or Wilting Leaves
Discolored or wilting leaves during the normal growing season are often one of the earliest indications of tree disease. Fungal infections like anthracnose or bacterial diseases such as fire blight typically cause leaf yellowing or browning in East Tennessee, particularly with maples or fruit trees.
If drought doesn’t cause wilting, vascular diseases like verticillium wilt that interrupt water and nutrient uptake could be the reason.
Dead or Dying Branches
Branches with no leaves or brittle bark could suffer from several diseases, including oak wilt or root rot. Insect infections from pests like the emerald ash borer can cause branch dieback — when limbs and branches begin to die at the tips with progression back toward the trunk.
Cankers or Lesions on the Trunk
Visible trunk cankers or lesions are abnormal growths that look out of place. They are typically caused by fungal or bacterial infections and indicate an increased risk of progressing internal structures. In our region, common diseases like Hypoxylon canker often affect hardwood species like oaks and chestnuts.
Cankers can also cause sap to ooze from the trunk or form discolored patches — another warning sign of internal decay.
Fungal Growth on Bark or Roots
If you see mushrooms or other fungi growing on the base of a tree or along the bark, there is a substantial chance of serious issues. Fungal growth often attacks trees suffering from root rot or heart rot.
Premature Leaf Drop
Premature leaf drop during the spring or summer is a common sign of excessive stress. Elms and maples often lose leaves early because of fungal diseases like leaf spot or insect infestation from aphids. Arborists can recommend some effective treatments when they can address these diseases early.
Soft, Spongy Wood
If you detect areas on a tree’s trunk that are soft to finger pressure, the tree likely has some form of internal decay. This type of deterioration often results from fungal infections like Armillaria, a wood-decay fungus common in our humid summer environment.
Count on Pro Tree of Knoxville for Full-Service Tree Care
Now that we’ve looked at some of the top signs that address, “How do you know if a tree is diseased?” you should take prompt action to protect your safety and property if any of your trees are in trouble.
Pro Tree of Knoxville is here to help with all tree issues — so don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact us online today or call (865) 294-0062 to schedule an inspection and service. Reach out today,