All living creatures can become sick, including trees. Diseases are often caused by pests or bacteria and can be passed from tree to tree. It’s important to recognize the signs to stop the disease from spreading by enlisting professional tree care services. If you’re concerned that a tree on your property may be diseased, keep an eye out for these signs.

How to Tell If Your Tree Is Sick

1. Cracked Bark

Bark protects trees from the elements, pest infestations, and exterior damage. If you notice deep cracks or holes in the trunk’s surface, the tree may be vulnerable to disease or already exposed. It may be necessary to remove the tree before it becomes hazardous or affects others on your property.

2. Decayed Wood or Fungus

Fungi, like mushrooms, tend to appear when part of a tree is damaged, and they can cause major decay that weakens the structure of the tree. If you notice any mushrooms on a tree trunk or around the base, contact your tree care company right away. Additionally, take note if any parts of the trunk look or feel crumbly or soft.

3. Shriveled Branches

If you notice that certain branches on your tree look shriveled, brown, and weak, that area of your tree may have contracted a disease. Luckily, if it’s just one or two branches that are exhibiting these signs, you should be able to stop the spread by removing them. Branch removal also helps you avoid weak ones falling off and causing damage or injury to objects and people below.

If you think your tree might be diseased, contact the team at Ohana Tree Services in Mililani, HI. They assist Oahu residents with tree trimming, removal, and planting as well as stump removal and emergency services. These tree care professionals have over 20 years of industry experience and are fully licensed and insured. Send a message online to request a no-obligation quote, or call (808) 520-0186 to schedule an appointment with a tree care specialist.