When your trees are healthy, they add shade and a beautiful aesthetic to your yard. However, the most common tree diseases can quickly deteriorate your attractive property. Diseased trees not only look unsightly, but they can also pose a threat to your home and family. Keep reading for expert tips to help you spot five of the most common tree diseases that could be lurking among your trees.
#1: Leaf Rust
Signs of leaf rust on your tree include leaves with distinctive reddish or orange, oval, or circular spots on the upper surface. The spores from the spots can leave an orange residue on hands and clothing. This residue weakens trees by interrupting photosynthesis. As the condition progresses, the tree can experience leaf loss, reduced growth, and increased susceptibility to other diseases and pests.
#2: Powdery Mildew
The primary sign of powdery mildew infestation on a tree is when the leaves appear white, gray, or dusty. It can look like baby powder sprinkled on the leaf’s surface. The powder is a result of fungal spores causing infection. While it is unlikely to kill the tree, powdery mildew can be disfiguring. With time, the infected leaves may turn yellow and fall off the tree prematurely.
#3: Fire Blight
If you notice your tree has a charred or burned appearance when it has not been exposed to fire, you may be dealing with fire blight. This is a rather destructive bacterial disease typically found on pear and apple trees. Infected branch tips and leaves turn brown or black; the leaves die but usually do not fall off. The tree’s bark develops red lesions that ooze liquid on warm days. This deadly disease can kill parts of the tree or even the entire tree if left untreated.
#4: Gall
Additionally, gall is a fungus that grows on the branches and trunks of mature trees. It results from insects feeding on the branches and leaves or laying eggs inside. The galls appear as tumor-like growths that develop on the tree in response to the gall-producing insect injecting chemicals into the tree. Most galls grow on the oak species of trees. While trees are unlikely to die from this disease, it can seriously affect their appearance.
#5: Witch’s Broom
And finally, a witch’s broom is a common tree disease. It sounds ominous, and it can look ominous on your tree. A witch’s broom is a disease that deforms the tree’s structure, creating a mass of shoots that grow from a single point. The mass looks like a broom or a nest and is typically caused by a fungus, insect infestation, or other pathogens. If left untreated, the broom-like growth can last for years but will not kill the tree.
Engram’s Tree Service Can Treat the Most Common Tree Diseases Your Trees May Have
Do any of these common diseases sound like what’s impacting the trees on your Georgia property? Turn to Engram’s Tree Service for a proper diagnosis and expert treatment. We are a family-owned and operated business with a certified arborist on staff who will provide the best solutions for the most common tree diseases your property may be facing. Connect with us now to get a free quote or to schedule service.