Some people don't realize that humans are not
the only ones who feel sick, but the truth is plants and animals suffer from
diseases, too! When pets are sick, they show symptoms as we do. They cough,
sneeze and lie around as if they're sad. Yet, it's more difficult to tell when
trees aren't feeling well.
Plants cannot show the same signs of sickness
as animals and humans. They can't whine about body pains to let you know. So
how can we tell when a tree is unwell? When a tree is sick, it might develop
sores on its bark or lean more to one side. Another sign is dead stems or
branches that fall off the tree. If any of these symptoms occur, the tree
you're looking at is possibly sick.
Trees give this world so much. They give us the air we breathe, provide shelter, and give hours of fun for children who love to swing, climb, and lie beneath their shade. The least we can do is watch for symptoms of disease and help them stay healthy. Keep an eye on the trees around your home as they might need help and proper plant health care. Check out these obvious signs of diseased trees.
1. Leaf Spot
Leaf Spot is a typical disease that flourishes in prolonged rainfall, high humidity, and warm temperatures. It normally develops in late early summer. Leaf spot is generally distinguished by spots on tree leaves (various colors, shapes, sizes ) and defoliation. Help reduce this type of disease by pruning your tree to improve airflow, disposing of infected leaves in the fall, and preventing too much watering.
2. Powdery mildew
This type of mildew is a fungal infection characterized by a white, powdery substance on tree leaves that cannot be scraped off. Mildew spores commonly develop in shadier locations with low airflow and high humidity levels. Even if it is not aesthetically pleasing, it doesn’t pose a serious threat or health risk to the tree unless left unattended for years.
Providing your tree with enough airflow and sunlight will prevent powdery mildew. Pruning nearby shrubs or trees that might be creating shade will also prevent powdery mildew from developing. Lastly, avoid overhead watering since foliage can be prone to fungal illnesses.
3. Black Knot
Black knot is a disease affecting trees like plums, cherries, and chokecherries. It is distinguished by puffy and discolored branches that begin tiny and light brown then grow into knot-like, black growths.
It can grow yearly, causing wrapping and dieback of the trunk or branches. The best way to treat a black knot is to remove infected twigs and branches at least 10 cm below any visible knot. The knot might run deep, so pruning that additional 10 cm is necessary!
Spring season is about to begin. Let your
trees show off their fresh appearance by following a proper plant health care
program. For assessment, call us at 03-9913-5195.