Pines are one of the most common tree species in North America. From the genus Pinaceae, this evergreen coniferous is characterized by clusters of needle-shaped leaves (known as pine needles).

It’s not uncommon for pine trees to grow in woods and backyards, offering a nice addition to the landscape.

But if you discover your pine tree is losing bark, it could be indicative of a more serious underlying problem. So, what causes a pine tree to lose its bark?

Disease

The single most common reason why pine trees lose their bark is disease.

Pine trees are susceptible to a wide variety of infectious diseases, some of which include pine wilt and needlecast. A sample can be taken and tested for the presence of these diseases.

Pine trees suffering from needlecast will often have red-colored bans around the needles.

Squirrels

If you’ve noticed a pine tree losing its bark, check for the presence of squirrels. These pesky little critters will often gnaw through the outer later of bark.

Sporadic damage such as this shouldn’t cause any significant or lasting damage. But if squirrels continue to gnaw on a pine tree, it can cause them to die.

Lightning

Another possible reason why pine trees lose their bark is because they were struck by lighting.

According to the Weather Channel, there are roughly 25 million cloud-to-ground lightning strikes per year. To say lightning is powerful would be an understatement.

With temperatures exceeding 1,800 degrees, it can easily damage a pine tree while blowing off some of its bark in the process.

It’s Natural

Of course, all pine trees will shed at least some of their bark. This is a completely natural process that should cause no reason for concern.

It’s only concerning if a pine tree is shedding significant amounts of bark for unnatural reasons, such as pest damage, lighting strikes, disease, etc.

So, what should you do if a pine tree has lost significant amounts of bark in your yard? Well, it depends on the extent of the damage, as well as what caused it.

If the damage is extensive, cutting down and removing the tree may be your best option. If the damage is minimal, however, you could likely save the tree and nurse it back to health.

Consult with a professional tree removal specialist to learn more about your options.

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

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