Trees can cause a tremendous amount of damage if they are not properly looked after or cared for. Now that Spring has arrived it’s a great time to assess the health of your trees.
Checking the health of a tree involves a combination of visual inspection and, in some cases, diagnostic testing.
Here are a few tips that you can do on your own but having an expert tree specialist or arborist inspect your trees can save you a lot of headache, hardship, and money if you misdiagnose a tree that can later wreak havoc if not taken care of properly.
Overview:
Look for full, vibrant leaves, strong branches, a well-developed crown, and a sturdy trunk and bark. Healthy trees should also show evidence of yearly growth and have no dead or broken branches. A healthy tree also should not have any loose, peeling bark, or fungi growing, on the trunk.
Areas to inspect:
Branches and Leaves:
- Abundant and vibrant leaves: Healthy trees have plenty of leaves that are the proper color, shape, and size for the season, full canopy, new leaf growth. Keep in mind that trees bud at different times so a tree that hasn’t produced new growth at the same time as other trees and looks like it is dead, may still be dormant.
- Dead or broken branches: Dead or broken branches are a sign of potential issues and should be pruned away to promote proper health during its growing season.
- Strong branches: Healthy trees have strong flexible branches that are well-spaced and adequately attached to the trunk, without excessive leaning or overextension.
- Warning Signs:
- Dead or brittle branches (snap easily)
- Discolored, spotted, or wilted leaves
- Premature leaf drop
- Sparse foliage or bare branches
Trunk and Bark:
- Strong bark: Bark should be intact and not lose or peeling, in most tree species. A professional arborist or tree expert will know the differences.
- No signs of disease: Look for any signs of fungal growth or other diseases or infestations that could affect the integrity of the tree.
- A strong central leader: Healthy trees typically have one main trunk, or central leader, from which branches grow. Trees with multiple trunks at the bottom are subject to splitting if not properly inspected.
- Warning Signs:
- Cracks or splits in the trunk
- Peeling, loose, or missing bark
Root Zone and Soil Condition:
- Soil: Soil drains well; no signs of erosion or compaction.
- Roots: Look for girdling (root wrap), waterlogged roots due to poor soil or drainage, and disease.
- Warning Signs:
- Exposed roots, especially if they look rotted
- Soil heaving (uprooting signs)
- Water pooling around the base
- Fungus or mushroom growth at the base (may indicate root rot)
Pest and Disease Check:
- Inspect for:
- Insect holes or sawdust (from borers)
- Chewed leaves or bark damage
- Sticky residue or unusual sap flow
- Fungal growth, cankers, or oozing wounds
Other Signs:
- Yearly growth: Trees should produce new growth each year.
- Check for damage: Look for cracks, splits, or other signs of damage to the trunk or branches.
- Inspect roots: While not always visible, healthy trees should have a strong root system.
If you notice any signs of disease, damage, or other problems, it's best to consult with a certified arborist like Ichabod’s Tree Experts for diagnosis and treatment.
Choosing an Arborist:
- Check for Certification: Look for arborists or Licensed Tree Expert who are certified by the State of Maryland
- Verify Credentials: You can verify an arborist's credentials using the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.
- Consider Experience and Expertise: Research the arborist's experience and expertise in your specific tree care needs.