7 Simple Tips for Monitoring the Health of Your Property’s Trees

Trees are generally a hardy species that can withstand harsh weather conditions in your area and common pests that attack them. However, over time, difficult conditions can cause visible problems that undermine the health and beauty of the trees on your property. Here are 7 tips for monitoring the health of your trees and what you can do to ensure they continue to give your property good service throughout the years.

1 – Look at the General Shape of the Tree

Each species of tree has its own particular shape, so if you notice any abnormalities in the growth of a tree, it could indicate a problem with the root system, trunk health, or sometimes a problem with pests. These problems can cause your trees to be misshapen and can indicate the need for specific types of care to maintain the health of the plant.

2 – Monitor the Number of Dead Branches

The appearance of a dead branch should not be of concern unless there are several of these throughout the tree’s structure. This sign could mean there is a fundamental problem in the tree, such as a disease or pest, which will continue to undermine the tree’s health.

3 – Assess the Damage to the Tree Trunk

Any sign of splitting or loosening of the tree’s bark is a sign that all is not well with your tree, and you should consult with a tree care professional to determine the underlying cause of the issue and what can be done to save the tree.

4 – Observe the Abundance and Condition of Leaves

Trees should have a full body of leaves with no bare spots or signs of excessive leaf drop. You should also look carefully at the leaves themselves, which should be colored a vivid green, not yellowed, and should be free of misshapen areas.

5 – Watch for Evidence of New Growth

Your trees should have clear evidence of new growth in the current year, with side branches, new leaf growth, and growth scars from the previous year. This indicates your tree is in a healthy state, able to renew itself with each growing season.

6 – Spot Fungus Growth

The trunk of your trees should be free of any discoloration or sign of fungus growth that could undermine their health. Look for yellowing of the trunk, black spots, white powdery fil, or rust-colored growth.

7 – Check on Visible Pest Infestation

You may be able to see signs that insects have invaded your tree and are making a home in the wood or leaf structures. You may see the insects themselves clustering in areas or you may see damage to the leaves, such as holes, wilted areas, or damage to edges of leaves.

Proper tree maintenance can help extend the life of the foliage on your property, so they can continue to provide shade for your yard and shelter for wildlife for many years to come. Your reputable local tree care professional can help to preserve your valuable trees, through treatment plans to eliminate disease and pest problems and to keep your trees in a safe and healthy condition.