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 works to weaken the trees by interrupting the photosynthesis process. 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 begin to appear white, gray, or dusty. It can look like baby powder sprinkled on the leaves’ 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 there has been no contact with fire, you may be dealing with fire blight. This is a rather destructive disease that is bacterial in nature. It is typically found on pear and apple trees. Infected branch tips and leaves turn brown or black, and the leaves die but typically do not fall off. The bark of the tree will develop red lesions that ooze liquid on warm days. This is a deadly disease that can kill parts of the tree or even the entire tree if left untreated.
#4: Gall
Additionally, gall is a type of fungus that grows on the branches and trunks of mature trees. It is a result of insects feeding on the branches and leaves or laying eggs inside it. 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 as a result of this disease, it can seriously impact its appearance.
#5: Witch’s Broom
And finally, witch’s broom is a common tree disease. It sounds ominous, and it can look ominous on your tree. 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 a result of fungus or 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 to get 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.