When it comes to tree care, the first things that come to mind are the usual activities, such as watering, pruning, and applying fertiliser. On top of these, you are supposed to spot the signs of sickness. More often than not, signs of tree disease are almost identical to the indicators of a dying tree.
If you want to keep the signs of disease from getting worse, you ought to spot them as soon as possible.
Here are some strategies that may help you out:
Check the Bark
The first thing you need to do is assess the state of the tree’s bark. Shedding of outer layer is normal. But if it is shedding at a faster rate, you might want to have an experienced tree surgeon check it. You should be alarmed when the tree sheds more bark that the inside of the tree starts to become visible. If not resolved immediately, the tree may weaken and may become prone to the infestation of pests.
Look at the Form
A tree is healthy when its growth is straight and upward (unless it is guided to grow in some way). Incorrect pruning also causes the tree to grow in a misshapen way. On top of this, you should find out if the branches are already weak. The branches of an unhealthy tree are brittle and easily blown away by the wind.
Look for Decay Marks
Decay marks are a result of the weakening of the tree’s entire body. One clear indication of this is the presence of mushrooms, fungi, and other pests. Check if the trunk and thick branches are already hollow. If so, evict it as soon as possible, as it may pose a threat to the people around it.
These are only some of the things you need to keep in mind when checking if your tree is already diseased (or dying for that matter). To validate your suspicion, it is best to consult an arborist.