It can be difficult to determine your tree's health without some helpful background knowledge. We’re here to give you a quick rundown. So, read on and then hop outside to scan that tree (or two) for signs of distress.
If you have inspected your tree and noticed any of the signs listed here, please contact us. We will assist you in assessing the situation either by visiting your location or by helping you analyze the issue using photos or videos. Our team is highly skilled and trained. We collaborate with consulting arborists to meet the needs and provide the best possible care.
We serve the greater Snoqualmie Valley, including many towns east of Seattle. More information about our service areas can be found here.
12 Signs To Look For When Inspecting Your Tree
1. Leaf Discoloration
Look for yellowing or browning of leaves outside of normal seasonal changes. What can it mean? This can indicate nutrient deficiencies or diseases.
3. Leaf Drop
Are leaves falling from the tree what seems prematurely? This can be especially concerning if it is outside of the normal season. It’s important to take note as this can indicate stress and disease.
3. Fungi or Mushrooms
Although many people find them fun to look at with their odd shapes and sizes, the presence of fungi or mushrooms at the base of the tree can indicate decay or rot. It is a good idea to take a closer look at this.
4. Cankers
Look for sunken areas or lesions on the trunk of the tree. If you see these present, it suggests physical damage that may have occurred or disease.
5. Bark Issues
Bark issues can look like cracks, peeling, or unusual growths. If these signs are present, they can indicate potential problems beneath the surface.
Frost cracks ➡ Trees can develop frost cracks when rapid temperature changes cause the bark to split. Cracks are especially common in cold climates and occur on the sunny side of the tree. They are more common in young or thin-barked species of trees.
The presence of frost cracks doesn’t always signify structural damage, as trees can often compartmentalize and heal these over time. If you notice signs of decay or stress in conjunction with these types of cracks, it is a good time to consult an arborist. At RCTW, we can help you assess the tree's overall health and determine whether any action needs to be taken.
6. Excessive Resin or Sap
This one can be harder to notice if you’re not tuned into how much resin or sap is normal, but a quick Google search or call to an arborist can help you figure that out. This is important as it could be the tree’s response to stress or injury.
7. Dead Branches
Does your tree have various dead and/or hanging branches? This could be a sign of several different things, including pest infestation, disease, or structural issues.
8. Root Problems
Exposed roots show the beautiful, complicated systems that lay underground in these amazing trees, but if you see them above ground along with soil heaving or in conjunction with visible decay around the base of the tree, there may be some bigger root issues at play.
Covering tree roots with soil or placing it too high up on the trunk can have adverse effects on the tree and reduce the oxygen supply to the roots, leading to root suffocation. The roots need proper aeration, and that’s why burying them under excessive soil or mulch can result in decay and hinder the tree’s ability to absorb crucial nutrients and water.
To avoid exposed roots leading to these issues, maintain a proper mulch layer around the base of the tree, keeping it away from the trunk while still allowing the roots to breathe.
9. Wilting
Persistent wilting of leaves meaning they look dry even with adequate water, can indicate root or vascular issues.
10. Insect Infestations
If you look at the tree and notice pests such as borers or scale insects, they can harm the tree's health, so it's important to monitor its well-being.
11. Reduced Canopy Density
If you see thinning or reduced foliage density, this can signify a decline in the tree’s overall health. Take note if you see this along with any of the other signs listed that could be a reason for the declined health.
12. Unusual Growth Patterns
Does your tree in question have any abnormal growth, such as excessive leaning? This can indicate larger structural problems. Is your tree producing multiple tops? Whether naturally or as a result of the previous topping, these can create instabilities and issues with the tree's weight and balance.