Is Your Tree Sick? Signs to Watch for and What to Do Next
Trees are the backbone of a landscape. They offer shade, boost curb appeal, and create a sense of place in a neighborhood. But just like people, trees can get sick. The problem? Unlike your dog whining at the door or a child running a fever, sick trees don’t tell you when something’s wrong—you have to know what to look for.
At Strunk Tree Service, we specialize in diagnosing and treating sick trees before they become major problems. Here’s what to watch for and when to call in the pros.
1. Unusual Leaf Behavior
Leaves can tell you a lot about a tree’s health. If you notice any of these issues, your sick tree might need help:
- Discoloration: Yellowing leaves (out of season) can indicate stress, disease, or nutrient deficiencies.
- Spots or Holes: Fungal infections and pests can leave marks or holes in the leaves.
- Early Leaf Drop: If your tree starts shedding leaves long before fall, something is off.
Leaf problems are often the first sign that something isn’t right, so don’t ignore them.
2. Bark That’s Peeling or Cracking
A healthy tree has strong, intact bark. If you start seeing large cracks, peeling sections, or sunken areas, it could be a sign of:
- Fungal infections that weaken the tree from the inside out.
- Pest infestations where insects burrow into the bark.
- Environmental stress from drought or extreme weather.
Think of bark like a tree’s skin—if it’s damaged, the tree is vulnerable to all sorts of problems.
3. Dead Branches or Sparse Canopy
If parts of your tree look bare or you see dead branches, it’s not just an aesthetic issue—it’s a warning sign. Trees naturally shed a few branches, but excessive deadwood can mean disease, root damage, or even internal decay.
Test a branch by bending it. If it snaps easily and looks dry inside, it’s dead. If multiple branches show signs of trouble, it’s time to call in a tree care expert.
4. Mushrooms and Fungal Growth
Fungus might look harmless (or even kind of cool), but it’s usually a bad sign when it appears on a sick tree. Common indicators of trouble include:
- Mushrooms growing at the base—a red flag for root rot.
- Shelf fungi (bracket fungi) on the trunk—signs of internal decay.
- White or black mold on leaves or bark—a sign of moisture-related diseases.
Fungal infections can quickly compromise a tree’s structure, making it weak and prone to falling.
5. Pests Taking Over
Eastern Pennsylvania trees face a long list of insect threats, including:
- Emerald Ash Borer – These tiny metallic-green beetles destroy ash trees from the inside out.
- Spotted Lanternfly – A major threat to many tree species, leaving behind a sticky mess that attracts mold.
- Aphids & Scale Insects – These sap-sucking pests weaken trees and invite secondary infections.
If you notice holes in the bark, sawdust-like debris at the base of the tree, or sticky leaves, pests might be the culprit.
What Can You Do?
If you suspect you have a sick tree, don’t wait for it to get worse. Some diseases and infestations spread quickly and can impact other trees in your yard. The best course of action? Call in the professionals.
At Strunk Tree Service, we provide expert tree diagnostics and treatment plans tailored to your specific situation. Whether it’s disease management, pest control, or structural support, we’ll get your tree back on track.
Need Help? Let’s Talk.
If your trees are showing signs of distress, Strunk Tree Service is here to help. Contact us today, and we’ll assess the situation, provide expert advice, and take the necessary steps to keep your trees healthy. Don’t wait until it’s too late—protect your trees today!
