Trees can grow for decades—or centuries—but many people underestimate the amount of care their trees need, particularly if they have been recently planted. Whenever you think there is a problem with a tree in your landscaping, it’s important to contact an arborist. An arborist is specially trained in the management of trees and knows how to prune trees effectively and otherwise keep them healthy. If you notice any of the following issues happening with your trees, be sure to have them examined by an arborist soon.
Damaged Bark
Changes in the bark on your tree can indicate that there is an issue below the surface. The first thing to look for is large, vertical cracks in the bark or bark that is brittle, sometimes with fungus growing on it. Fungal growth can indicate that internal rot is occurring. In other instances, smooth areas along the trunk where bark has fallen off the tree can indicate an issue. In a healthy tree, bark that falls off regrows. If it doesn’t, disease could be to blame.
Leaning Trees
Healthy trees should grow straight and tall. If a tree begins to lean to one side, root damage may be to blame. Another indicator of this kind of root damage is if leaves do not grow on the branches on one side of the tree. Trees with root damage can become unstable and fall, causing damage to property or even loss of life.
Clinging Leaves
If you have deciduous trees, like maples, in your landscaping, you should expect them to drop their leaves every fall and winter. If they have clinging leaves—leaves that don’t fall as expected—it is usually a sign of distress in the tree. Keep in mind that some trees lose their leaves later than other trees, but if you notice a change in pattern or think that a newly planted tree should have lost its leaves when it hasn’t, allow an arborist to examine it.
Complete Landscaping has on-staff arborists to assist with everything from tree planting to pruning to stump removal. For more information or to schedule an appointment with an arborist in Tucson, dial (520) 323-8918.