These days, it feels like everyone is stressed. Adults are stressed, kids are stressed, even trees are stressed. Wait, what? Yep, trees can get stressed, too. Of course, it’s not the social, political, or pandemic events that are doing it in their cases. Trees can get stressed by a variety of factors, and stress is the leading cause of early tree demise. Trees out in forests can live hundreds of years, but trees in the city usually only live a few decades. The reason is that there are so many more stressors in the city, like too much or too little water, soil compaction, pollution, road salts, damage to root systems, and more. If you’re worried that your trees might be stressed, keep an eye out for these signs.
Canopy Issues
If your tree’s canopy is not leafed out in the usual way, that can be a sign of stress. Lack of canopy leaves or an abundance of dead branches can only mean that there is something stressing your tree. Leaf drop from your canopy is another sign. If your tree drops leaves when it shouldn’t, it is likely conserving resources because it is battling a stressor.
Trunk Or Branch Issues
Many trunk and branch issues can be a sign of stress. For example, trunks that are co-dominant, meaning there are two equal trunks, usually splitting in a V, are a sign of stress. Splits, fissures, or cracks in the trunk or branches are another sign. Trees that lean suddenly, not ones that slowly lean over many years, are also trees under stress (more often than not, the effects of a storm). Any of these signs of stress should alert you to seek the help of a professional.
Leaf Issues
The leaves are another place you will see signs of stress. Leaves can be scorched by heat in the summer, develop spots due to fungus, turn brown or wilt due to shock, or turn colors early (like full fall foliage in August). Each of these is a sign of tree stress and necessitates a call to a tree specialist.
Other Issues
Mushrooms that grow at the base of your tree are another sign of stress. Mushrooms or fungi usually grow on decaying or rotting wood – if they’re growing around or on your tree or its roots, there may be a big problem.
Tree Care and Maintenance from Harford Tree
Ready to have the beautiful yard you have always dreamed of? Harford Tree Experts & Landscaping, Inc has been in the business for decades, providing customers with quality work and quick responses all at the right price. We service the areas of Harford County, Baltimore County, Baltimore City areas including Bel Air, Fallston, Perry Hall, Towson, Essex, Parkville, White Marsh, and Middle River. For service during business hours, reach out to us or give us a call at 410-592-7321. We offer 24/7 emergency service as well, just give us a call at 443-250-6649. For updates about our business and more informative tips, follow us on Facebook and Twitter.