Trees are tough, but they’re not invincible. Just like people, they can fall victim to disease, pests, and environmental stress. The tricky part? Sick Trees can’t exactly tell you when they’re feeling under the weather. That’s where a little observation — and the experts at Sandborn Tree Service — come in.
If you’ve noticed your tree looking a little off, don’t ignore it. Catching issues early can save your tree and prevent hazards like falling limbs or complete tree failure. Here’s what to look for and what to do next with sick trees.
1. Leaves That Don’t Look Right
Leaves are often the first sign that something is wrong. Keep an eye out for:
- Discoloration – Yellowing when it shouldn’t, black spots, or unusual browning could mean disease or nutrient deficiencies.
- Wilting or Curling – This can signal a root issue, drought stress, or even pests.
- Sparse or No Leaves – If your tree is struggling to grow leaves in the spring or has bare patches, it’s a red flag.
What to Do: If the issue is minor, extra watering or fertilizer might help. But if your tree still looks off, it’s time for a professional diagnosis.
2. Bark That’s Peeling or Cracking
A healthy tree has strong, intact bark. If you see:
- Deep cracks – These can invite pests and diseases or indicate structural weakness.
- Missing bark – If large patches of bark are peeling off, your tree could be in trouble.
- Cankers (Sunken or Oozing Areas) – These are dead spots in the bark caused by fungal or bacterial infections.
What to Do: Resist the urge to pull off peeling bark. Instead, check for other symptoms and call in an expert if the damage is widespread.
3. Mushrooms Growing at the Base
Mushrooms might look charming, but they’re often a sign of internal decay. Fungi feed on decomposing wood, which means the inside of your sick tree could be rotting.
What to Do: If mushrooms pop up occasionally, it may not be a big deal. But if you see clusters regularly, especially near the trunk, it’s time for an inspection.
4. Branches That Snap Easily
Healthy branches should be flexible, not brittle. If your tree drops limbs more often than usual, or if you notice:
- Deadwood (Brittle, Lifeless Branches) – These can break off unexpectedly, creating a safety hazard.
- Excessive Shedding – A tree that loses big branches outside of storms might be in decline.
What to Do: Pruning can help, but if your tree is shedding major limbs, it may need professional intervention.
5. Pests Making Themselves at Home
Insects are a part of nature, but some cause serious damage. Look for:
- Holes in the Bark – Could be a sign of boring insects like emerald ash borers or bark beetles.
- Sawdust or Sticky Sap – Evidence of pest activity.
- Defoliation (Stripped Leaves) – Caterpillars and other pests can chew through leaves fast.
What to Do: If you notice excessive insect activity, treatment may be necessary before your tree becomes a buffet.
When to Call in the Experts
If your tree shows multiple symptoms, or if you’re just not sure what’s wrong, it’s best to bring in a professional. At Sandborn Tree Service, we can diagnose the issue and recommend the best course of action—whether it’s targeted treatment, pruning, or in severe cases, removal.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. If your sick tree is showing signs of distress, contact Sandborn Tree Service today for a consultation. Let’s keep your trees standing strong for years to come!
