Trees are an essential component of an attractive landscape. They provide shade, improved air quality, aesthetics and more. Unfortunately, though, there are certain problems from which trees suffer. If any trees in your home’s landscape have the following problems, you should take action to remedy them.
#1) Fire Blight
Fire blight is a common bacterial disease afflicting trees in Texas and the surrounding area. While it typically affects fruit-bearing trees, no tree is safe from fire blight. It usually begins by causing the foliage to turn black and die.
The tips of the branches may also curve at the tips, creating a hook-like shape at the end. Depending on the severity of the disease, you may be able to treat it by trimming and pruning away affected shoots.
#2) Root Restriction
Root restriction, as the name suggests, occurs when a tree’s roots are unable to grow deep into the soil. It’s not uncommon for mature trees to grow 20 feet into the ground while searching for water and nutrients. When there’s a blockage or obstruction, however, their roots may only extend a few feet into the ground.
#3) Pests
Of course, pests are another common tree problem that homeowners need to be aware of. Even if your trees are otherwise healthy, they could be suffering from a pest infestation.
Common pests affecting trees in Texas and the surrounding area include stipplers, suckers and aphids. If a tree in your landscape is suffering from a pest infestation, consider using a natural insecticide like neem oil.
#4) Leaf Scorch
While not as common as fire blight, leaf scorch remains a common problem for many homeowners. It’s caused by a bacteria spread by insects.
Leaf scorch disrupts the normal flow of water from the tree’s roots to its leaves, thus causing problems like slow growth, brown leaves, wilting and other associated symptoms. Leaf scorch typically affects trees such as oaks, sycamores and elms.
#5) Compact Soil
Finally, you should check the composition of the soil surrounding your trees. If the soil is too loose, it may erode and wash away during periods of heavy rainfall. On the other hand, if it’s too compacted, the tree’s roots won’t be able to effectively absorb water and nutrients from the ground.
These are just a few common problems affecting trees in a landscape. As a homeowner, you should keep a watchful eye out for these and other related problems, because the sooner you identify a problem, the lower the risk of permanent damage occurring.
The Woodsman Company offers tree planting, tree pruning and shrub trimming, tree removal and stump grinding as well as a tree wellness program.
If we can help with any of your tree care needs give us a call at 512-846-2535 or 512-940-0799 or
Pest control just isn’t as easy as people want it to be. First, and you know this, you really need someone knowledgeable doing a visual inspection. Check irrigation , drainage patterns. You don’t want to use the wrong treatment in the wrong area like around pools or small shrubs that could be hurt.
Also perhaps the owner has noticed a seasonal pattern before they called you. Some of that can depend on the weather, which I’m guessing is hot and dry and y’all.
Sounds like y’all’s clients are in great hands. Keep up the good work.
Good article!
Very nice website full of excellent information. Thanks for sharing
Love the tips! It’s great to be aware of these things, and how to handle them before they turn into a major problem!