Common Diseases Affecting Trees in Indiana and How to Treat Them

Posted on January 30, 2023 by Completetree

Indiana is known for its lush forests and wide variety of trees. However, these trees can be vulnerable to a number of diseases that can cause serious damage if left untreated. Common tree diseases in Indiana include anthracnose, oak wilt, fire blight, Dutch elm disease, and Phytophthora root rot. Understanding the symptoms and causes of these diseases is key to protecting your trees from harm and preserving their beauty for years to come.

In this blog post, we will discuss the most common tree diseases affecting Indiana trees as well as how you can identify them and treat them effectively.

Call 317-783-2518 to Speak With a Licensed Arborist in Indianapolis Indiana. — Dutch Elm Disease (DED) (Ophiostoma ulmi)

Indiana Tree Diseases and Treatments

Anthracnose

Anthracnose is a common fungal disease that affects many tree species in Indiana. It is caused by fungi that thrive on wet, humid weather and can cause deep, dark spots on leaves and twigs as well as leaf loss. Anthracnose can be treated with fungicides applied to the affected area or entire tree depending on how severe the infection is. It’s important to note that fungicides must be used carefully and according to instructions to avoid harming other organisms in your garden or landscape.

Oak Wilt

Oak wilt is another common tree disease found in Indiana, particularly affecting red oak species. Oak wilt is caused by a fungus which rapidly spreads from tree to tree through their root systems. Symptoms of oak wilt include yellowing, wilting and curling of foliage, as well as dieback of branches. Treatment for this disease requires injecting the tree with a fungicide or removing infected branches to prevent further spread.

Fire Blight

Fire blight is another destructive fungal disease that affects many fruit trees in Indiana. It is characterized by cankers on twigs and branches as well as blackening of fruit. Treatment for fire blight typically involves pruning away affected branches and applying a chemical solution to the tree to prevent further spread.

Dutch Elm

Dutch elm disease is another serious fungal infection that affects many species of elm trees in Indiana, particularly older trees. It is characterized by wilting and yellowing of leaves, as well as dieback of branches. Treatment for this disease requires pruning away infected branches and using a fungicide to prevent further spread.

Phytophthora

Phytophthora root rot is a fungal infection that causes severe damage to tree roots. Symptoms include wilting and yellowing of foliage, as well as dieback of branches. Treatment typically involves removing affected roots and applying a fungicide to the tree or soil to prevent further spread.

Routine Tree Care is Key

Tree care is essential in order to keep your trees healthy and beautiful. It’s important to check your trees regularly for signs of disease and act quickly if any are spotted. While it may be tempting to try and treat tree diseases yourself, it’s important to seek professional help in order to ensure the best results and prevent further damage. A qualified arborist can inspect your trees for any signs of disease, recommend an appropriate treatment plan and provide advice on how to best care for your trees.

Protect Indiana’s Trees

Protecting Indiana’s treasured forests is essential to maintaining the state’s natural beauty. By recognizing common tree diseases and taking steps to prevent and treat them, you can help ensure that our forests remain healthy and vibrant for years to come.

Are you having trouble keeping your trees healthy year-round? Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 to get advice from a certified arborist in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial clients with comprehensive tree care solutions.

Common Tree Problems That Happen in the Fall

Posted on October 11, 2022 by Completetree

Trees play an important role in our environment. They help clean the air we breathe and provide homes for wildlife. Trees also add beauty to our landscape. But, like all living things, trees need care to stay healthy. Unfortunately, with every passing season comes the risk of certain tree problems, from disease and pest outbreaks to undernourishment, animal tampering, environmental discourse, and more.

This season, be sure to keep your eyes on your landscaping trees. Do not let them become victim to some of the most common tree problems that happen in the Fall. Continue below to learn which problems you should be watching out for.

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Typical Threats to Landscaping Trees This Time of Year

Most trees experience the majority of their problems during the Fall season. Many of these problems are caused by the changing weather and environmental conditions. Here are some of the most common tree problems that occur during Fall:

Leaf Drop

This is one of the most common problems experienced by trees during Fall. As temperatures cool and days grow shorter, trees begin to drop their leaves. While this is a natural process, it can be problematic for trees that are already struggling. Leaf drop can cause further stress and damage to the tree and can even lead to death in some cases.

Disease

Fall is also a prime time for diseases to take hold in trees. Many diseases thrive in the cooler, wetter conditions of Fall. If a tree is already weak or stressed, it is more likely to succumb to disease. Common diseases that affect trees during Fall include leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot.

Pests

Pests are also a major problem for trees during Fall. Many pests, such as aphids, mites, and scale insects, are attracted to the sweet nectar produced by trees during this time of year. These pests can cause serious damage to trees and can even kill them in some cases.

Wind and Frost damage

Strong winds are common during Fall, and they can cause serious damage to trees. High winds can snap branches, uproot trees, and topple weak or dead trees. Frost can also cause serious damage to trees during Fall. Frost can kill leaves, branches, and even the entire tree in some cases. It is important to protect trees from frost damage by providing them with adequate water and mulch.

Tree Care Tips

Here are some tips on how to keep your trees healthy:

▶ Water your trees regularly. Trees need at least 1-2 inches of water per week, depending on the weather. The best time to water your trees is in the early morning hours before the sun gets too hot.

▶ Mulch your trees. Mulching helps retain moisture in the soil and keeps roots cool in the summer months. Apply a layer of mulch around the tree base but be sure not to pile it too high against the trunk.

▶ Prune your trees regularly. Pruning helps remove dead or diseased branches and encourages new growth. Be sure to prune your trees during their dormant season (winter for most trees).

▶ Watch for pests and diseases. Keep an eye out for signs of pests or diseases, such as discolored leaves or branches. If you see something suspicious, contact a certified arborist for help.

By following these simple tips, you can help keep your trees healthy and looking their best! Need some professional tree care? Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for licensed Indianapolis tree service at an affordable price. We serve both residential and commercial clients all throughout Central Indiana.

Is My Tree Dead or Diseased?

Posted on July 28, 2022 by Completetree

Many homeowners wonder how to spot or recognize a dead tree or a tree that is dying in their yard. It is important to ask these questions because a dead or diseased tree can pose a dangerous threat to its’ immediate surroundings. A dead tree will eventually fall and deteriorate, causing structural damage or harm to whatever it hits. Cars, houses, electrical wiring, and even people are potential victims of a perishing tree. It is good for homeowners to wonder about tree care and how to distinguish healthy trees from sick ones.

Continue reading to learn how to tell the difference between diseased, dead, and living trees for the safety of your property and family.

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The Distinctions Between Dead Trees and Sick Trees

Dead Trees

A dead tree will not sprout any new buds on its limbs and branches. Every spring, tiny green buds will appear on healthy trees, which signifies new branch or limb growth. If you notice through the seasons that a certain tree is not re-blooming, there could be a problem with the tree’s health.

Dead trees will also have dry and brittle bark. As a test, break off a small branch to see if it bends or snaps right off. If the branch snaps off in a dry and quick manner, then the tree is most likely dead. If the branch is flexible and bends, it is a sign of life. Also, look at the inside of the broken branch; if it looks green and moist then the tree is perfectly fine.

Another easily spotted sign of a dead tree is the trunk bark. Underneath the bark of the tree, there should be a moist, green, and meaty material. This means the tree is healthy and living. Use your fingernail or a small knife and scrape off a small section of the bark and look for these signs. If the bark is dry, dark brown, and flaky, it could mean the tree is dead.

Tree Diseases

A tree doesn’t have to be dead to be a potential danger to its surroundings. Diseased or dying trees are also dangerous to have near properties and high traffic areas. The signs to a diseased and sick tree are very similar to the signs of a dead tree; however, trees expire from the inside out, so a tree that appears fairly healthy may actually be dying.

Several variables can make a tree sick. For example, insects and other pests can cause substantial damage to a tree. One common infestation comes from the Emerald Ash Borer. Over fertilization, mold, storm damage, and more are all other possibilities for a tree to fall ill.

All trees, either dead or diseased, should be removed by a trained and professional tree service technician. They retain the proper equipment and industry knowledge to safely remove or treat dead and diseased trees without posing any further harm to the property. Give a local tree care company a call for advice and information about dead trees in your town.

Are you concerned about the condition of your landscaping trees? Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for licensed Indianapolis Indiana tree service and affordable price. We serve both residential and commercial clients all throughout central Indiana.

Should I Remove a Dead Sycamore Tree?

Posted on May 30, 2022 by Completetree

Sycamores are magnificent ancient species that deserve so much gratitude. If you have a sycamore tree on your property, you are one lucky homeowner. So, when your sycamore tree starts to show signs of decline or has not sprouted leaves this spring, you may be asking yourself some very important questions. Is my sycamore tree dead? Why did my sycamore tree die? Should I remove a dead sycamore tree? Continued below to learn the answers to these questions and more.

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The American Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis)

The American sycamore tree is a prevalent species in U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) hardiness zones 4 through 9, which means they are very common here in the Hoosier state. They are one of the tallest growing trees in our region, achieving heights as high as 100 feet! American Sycamores also bear round, button-like fruit that looks similar to a Christmas tree ornament. Each ball is a cluster of seeds, appearing rough on the surface. They bloom in late summer when temperatures are high and steady. They are unique in that the fruit remains attached to the tree through the winter season, rather than dropping in the fall like similar deciduous trees. When spring arrives, the cluster of seeds will break apart and fall to the ground.

How Does Your Sycamore Tree Look Right Now?

Being that is it in fact spring, your sycamore trees should be dropping their fruit right about now. But if your trees haven’t even sprouted leaves at this point, it could be dead. In fact, a sycamore tree that is still bare and leafless in spring is a top sign that it is dead. Additional signs of a dead or dying Sycamore tree include missing bark, damaged bark, dropping branches, past outbreaks, epicormic sprouting at the base of the trunk, or only one side of the tree sprouting leaves.

However, it is possible that only part of the tree is dead when exhibiting such signs. This is where diagnosis gets a little tricky. It is important to consult a licensed and insured Indianapolis tree service company for an accurate diagnosis. They can determine whether your tree is dead and if it should be removed for safety reasons.

When to Remove a Dead or Dying Sycamore Tree

In most cases, a dead sycamore tree will not need to be removed. Those that do will exhibit certain signs. Specifically, a sycamore tree should be removed if it is leaning, dropping branches, or has more than 50% damage to the trunk or canopy. Always enlist the services of a professional Indianapolis tree care contractor for safe tree removal services.

Never attempt to remove a dead sycamore tree on your own. There are several hazards and safety concerns involved in tree work that are beyond the untrained eye. Proper tree removal requires expert knowledge and training, as well as state licensing, industry-specific resources and materials, quality equipment, and more.

Do you have a dead tree that needs to be removed on your lot? Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for licensed and insured tree removal in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. We serve residential and commercial clients.

How Much Will Tree Removal Cost?

Posted on January 18, 2022 by Completetree

There are several reasons why property owners have to remove trees. And even more reasons that influence the cost of tree removal services. Storm-damaged trees, dead trees, dying trees, and trees that are obstructions in some form or another, are often removed to enhance a property’s appeal, function, and safety. And in most cases, it is highly necessary or strongly recommended to do so.

If you believe you have a tree, or trees, that need removed, but you are unsure of how much it will cost you out-of-pocket, continue reading for a general guide to tree removal costs.

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Top 5 Factors That Influence Tree Removal Prices

So how do you know if you need to remove your tree? There are few clues to look for. If it is causing structural damage to your home or surrounding property, it definitely needs to be removed. If it is a safety or navigational hazard, it should also be removed.

And if you suspect that it is sick, dying, or dead, then you may need tree removal service. But don’t panic over outrageous tree removal prices. There are a few ways to gauge how much it will cost to remove your tree. A reputable tree care company can provide free estimates and advice as well.

Consider these 5 factors when trying to estimate the cost of your tree removal needs:

❶ Size – This will have one of the largest impacts on the overall price of your tree removal project. A tiny, skinny tree will cost much less than a large one because less labor and equipment is needed.

❷ Location – Also having a huge impact on the overall total price is the location of a tree. The degree of accessibility, danger, and effort all play a major role in your estimate.

❸ Health – Trees that are dead, diseased, or infested tend to cost more to remove because additional labor, time, and equipment are needed. Also, it is a safety hazard.

❹ Stumps – After you have a tree removed, there is still a stump remaining. If you opt to leave the stump as-is, you can significantly decrease the cost of your tree removal project. But if you want the stumps removed or ground down, this will be an additional cost.

❺ Quantity – The number of trees you need removed will be the final deciding factor on how much your total project cost will be. Take the above four factors to estimate the cost of tree removal per tree, then multiply that sum by the number of trees you need taken down. Although it won’t be exact, this calculation can give you a rough estimate of what it might cost for your tree removal job.

Dead or Diseased Tree Removal

If you have a dead, diseased, or dying tree on your property, be sure to play it safe. Do not try to remove it or treat it yourself. Do not allow pets or children near the tree. And always call a trusted tree service provider for a professional assessment.

Do you have a tree that needs to be removed or a lot that needs clearing? Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for Indianapolis IN tree removal at the most competitive prices around. We serve residential and commercial clients.

How To Tell if You Have Dangerous Trees On Your Property

Posted on December 8, 2021 by Completetree

Trees grow and grow and can reach incredible dimensions. They are tall, heavy, and subsequently, dangerous in the case that one was to fall over. Trees are vital parts of our surrounding landscapes and Eco-systems; however, they can also pose several safety threats if not properly maintained.

A fallen tree can damage anything in its path, including vehicles, buildings, homes, patios, bridges, power lines, telephone poles, man-made structures, landscaping, and more. It is important to know what a dangerous tree looks like so that you can prevent serious and costly accidents.

Continue reading to learn the signs of a tree that has a high risk of falling, and who to call for trusted tree removal service near you.

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Common Tree Hazards to Look Out For

Many factors can lead to a tree falling over, including construction damage, storm damage, wildlife tampering, disease, and more. The most common causes are undernourishment, tree disease, and pest infestation. These factors can quickly throw a tree’s health into decline, which renders a tree weak and more vulnerable to dying. And a dead or dying tree has a high risk of falling over. When it comes to a tree potentially falling over, here are the top signs to lookout for:

► Leaning Trunk – The most obvious sign that a tree might fall over is if it is leaning to one side. This blatant indication of imbalance is a forewarning that something is not right with the tree. This makes the tree a hazard, and it should be removed as soon as possible. Something as minor as a windy day can cause it to finally topple.

► Increased Wildlife Activity – A hole in the tree trunk is a great place for wildlife to take shelter, including birds, squirrels, chipmunks, and more. However, too much wildlife activity can be a sign that a tree is not as healthy as it could be. This is especially true with insects. If you notice an increase in bugs, it could be a result of a sick or dying tree.

► Trunk Cavities – Many times, a tree will self-prune and drop branches from the trunk. This causes holes in the trunk, which then lead to tree decay, pest infestation, and wildlife activity. However, according to the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service, as long as there is enough wood surrounding the hole, there is a good chance the tree will not fall.

► Rotting Roots – Root rot is a common tree disease that occurs as a result of several factors. And unfortunately, it is hard to spot. Look to the base of the trunk for signs like excessive or sudden mushroom growth or moist bark. Fungi growth generally implies that the tree is rotting from within, which puts the tree in an incredible unstable condition. Also look at the leaves. When a tree loses leaves from the outside in, it is a sign that something is wrong with the root zone.

Do you want to protect your landscaping trees from becoming a liability or hazard in Indiana? Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for Indianapolis Indiana tree services you can trust. We serve residential and commercial clients all through the central parts of the state.

Tree Care Tips for Homeowners Who Want an In Ground Pool

Posted on May 12, 2021 by Completetree

Adding a pool to your property this spring will certainly raise your home’s value; but be sure to take the proper measures to ensure your beautiful landscaping trees are not negatively affected by the construction and installation process. Trees add property value too! Continue reading to learn what you need to know about tree care before having an in-ground swimming pool installed.

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Preventative Maintenance Should Come Before Installation

Before construction begins for your in-ground swimming pool, be sure to talk to your contractor about their internal safety standards and practices in regard to landscape protection. You will want to know where they will need to enter your yard, which equipment will be driven on your lawn, which trees will need to be removed (if any), and much more. You will need to develop a plan together that will protect your trees during the construction process.

Tree Location

If trees are too close to a swimming pool, several inherent risks are posed. Not only can the leaves and pollen jeopardize the clarity of your pool water and add to the amount of manual maintenance you need to do, but it can also affect the tree root system. Trees that are too close are more likely to develop root stability problems, which can lead to tilting, tipping, and falling. This can subsequently cause the tree to experience health issues and eventual decline. As for your pool, the filter can be affected by all the falling tree debris, resulting in costly repair and replacement bills.

The general rule of thumb is to make sure trees are at least 2 ½ times the tree’s trunk diameter away from the lip of the swimming pool. Here’s an example on how to do the math:

Tree Trunk Diameter = 36 Inches
36 x 2.5 = 90 Inches
► This tree should be at least 90 inches (7.5 feet) away from the pool’s edge.

Pool Installation Crew

It is important to discuss how your pool company plans on installing your pool. That is because the impact of construction equipment and crew members can be highly detrimental to existing landscaping trees. Compaction of the critical root zones of trees can be easily prevented by simply discussing the concern upfront, and strategizing a way to avoid tree damage during the construction phase.

Certain tree species are more resilient to this type of stimuli, such as live oaks. However, it is still important to take the necessary precautionary measures anyway. Other tree species are particularly vulnerable under such conditions, such as Hackberry trees. These will quickly split, rot, and decline if impacted negatively by pool construction.

Additional Tree Care Tips For Pool Owners

It is best to install pools in the fall or winter when trees are dormant. The stress of the construction and hot summer heat can take a large toll on landscaping trees. Also, watch out for root damage when the pool installers begin to trench the ground. Roots should be cut cleanly, and never ripped or torn. This could cause uneven regeneration or root rot.

Do you need to remove some trees to make room for a new pool this summer? Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for prompt and professional tree removal service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve commercial and residential clients.

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How to Prevent Poor Tree Health

Posted on February 4, 2021 by Completetree

It is wintertime, so it’s expected for trees to be well into their dormancy stage. But there is a different between dormant trees and dying trees, even though the signs are virtually indiscernible at first glance. Dying trees are not green under the bark, and do not show signs of growth buds on their branches. Talk to a local tree care contractor to assess the condition of a tree that has given you some concerned. They will be able to determine whether or not your tree is dormant, dead, or dying. When it comes times to ask yourself what caused your tree to experience problems, you will need to understand a few things about tree care.

Continue reading to learn what it takes to ensure landscaping trees remain healthy and hazard-free assets to your property.

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What You Need to Know About Tree Health

Fundamentally, trees need water, nutrients, and sunlight to survive. But trees really need a lot of water. In fact, some trees require hundreds of gallons of water each day! There are several other factors that influence the health of a tree (i.e. soil, weather, pollution, over-crowdings, etc.), but these three elements are the most influential. If even one of them is disturbed, it can cause the tree distress, and eventual decline in health. And a spot of decline leaves a tree in a more vulnerable state, making it more susceptible to pest infestations and tree diseases.

Fortunately, there are plenty of effective ways to make sure your trees survive the winter, and thrive throughout each upcoming season. Below are some important tree care tips to consider if you are concerned about the condition of your landscaping trees.

Professional Tree Care Advice to Follow All Year

Provide routine tree care, including trimming, pruning, watering, fertilizing, and mulching. Pruning dead branches is especially important to prevent tree cankers, weevils, and blights.

Use a professional tree care company for major tree work, like tree removal, stump grinding, tree diseases, infestations, and more.

Only plant drought-tolerant tree species if you live in a region where hot-spells and dry-spells are common.

Remove dead or dying trees IMMEDIATELY. The longer they are on your property, the more problems and hazards they can potentially impose.

Thin out any underbrush and small tree canopies to improve the vigor of your other trees. Provide canopy thinning in the spring to promote more sunlight and healthy growth.

Where to Get Trusted Indianapolis Indiana Tree Service Year-Round

Call Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for professional tree inspection services from a certified arborist in Indianapolis, Indiana and surrounding locations. Our certified tree service company in Indianapolis delivers a wide range of skilled tree removal and tree care services for residential and commercial properties. If you have a tree emergency, we also offer same day service, and two separate after-hours phone lines. Request a free estimate, today.

How to Identify Dead Trees on Your Property

Posted on December 11, 2020 by Completetree

Especially during the wintertime, it can be tough determining if a tree is dead, alive, or simply dormant for the season. This time of year, however, trees have not reached their dormancy yet, so it can be a little easier spotting a tree in trouble. Continue reading to learn how to tell the difference between a dead tree and a healthy tree, and what to do if your tree is indeed, dead.

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Small Dead Trees

For trees that are small or short, you are likely able to reach their twigs and branches. This makes it easy to test the tree and determine whether or not it is dead or alive. Simply snap off a twig and take a look at its fleshy center for signs of life. Healthy flesh will look light and green, whereas dead or dying/will look dull and gray. Also, a dead or dying tree branch will snap off dry and quick, whereas a healthy twig might give you a bit of a struggle. Small trees are easy to manage, but when trees are very large or tall it can be difficult testing branches on your own if you can’t reach them. For this reason, you need professional Indianapolis tree service.

Large Trees That are Dead or Dying

Professional tree service companies retain the proper training, experience, and specialized equipment to care for large trees safely and efficiently. They will be able to implement the proper procedures to test the tree for life, as well as suggest and implement strategies for either saving or removing the tree. Of course, they also retain the proper resources to provide safe tree removal and tree care services. If the trees that are dying, it usually needs to be removed right away to prevent accidents.

Before you contact a professional tree service company, you can look for signs of a dead or dying tree. Having this information and relaying it to your professional tree technician will help them better understand your tree care needs.

Signs of a Dead Tree:

► Loss of Foliage
► Leaf Discoloration
► Leaf Curling
► Leaf Wilting
► Pest Infestations
► Tree Trunk Rot
► Waterlogged Roots
► Exposed Roots
► Bark Discoloration
► Fungus Growth
► Dropping Branches

Dead Tree Removal Service in Indianapolis and Surrounding Counties

Call Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 to get professional tree removal for dead trees in Indianapolis, Indiana. We have served Hoosier communities since 1978 as a licensed and insured tree service company here in Indianapolis, and continue to provide top quality tree services for both residential and commercial properties throughout its surrounding areas. if you have a tree emergency after regular business hours, we offer two separate after-hours phone lines! Contact us to request an estimate, anytime.

Top 4 Signs That Indicate a Tree is Dead

Posted on April 13, 2018 by Completetree

Now that spring is here, you should be seeing some changes in your landscape. Grass is getting greener, plants are starting to bud, and wildlife activity is increasing every day. With a little more time, all the trees and flowers will soon be blooming and producing as they do every year. However, some trees do not make it through the winter, which is why now it is a good time to check your trees and ensure they are still alive and healthy.

If your trees are currently in decline, there may be a chance to restore them with proper tree care and treatment. If your trees are dead, they may need to be removed or trimmed back. A licensed tree service specialist can make this determination for you after just one visit.

In the meantime, continue reading to learn the top 4 common signs that indicate a tree could be dead.

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❶ Bare Branches

One of the most obvious signs that a tree is not healthy is branch loss. If you notice that a tree on your property looks bare this spring because it failed to produce a full canopy of foliage, it could be having health issues or close to dying. In the case that half of the tree’s canopy is full and bright and the other half is bare, it could be a sign that the tree is sick with a disease. Common tree diseases that cause foliage loss include Oak Wilt, Fire Blight, Emerald Ash Borer, Root Rot, and Crown Rot. If a large tree is diseased and loses half its canopy, it could become a safety hazard since the imbalance of foliage weight can cause the tree to fall.

❷ Trunk Damage

After you take a look at the tree’s canopy, you need to inspect the trunk. A tree’s trunk will provide good evidence if it becomes ill or malnourished. Look closely for vertical cracks. This kind of tree damage is a good indication that it is not doing well in terms of health. It may still be alive, but something is interfering with its health and structural integrity. Tree trunks should have bark that protects the inner parts of the trunk responsible for nutrient and water absorption and distribution. If you see patches on the trunk that are completely smooth and bark-free (almost like finished wood), whether large or small, it is a bad sign.

❸ Fungal Growth

The appearance of mushrooms and similar fungal growths are a common sign of a dead tree, or tree decline. To look for fungal growth, pay close attention to trunk and the base of the tree. This is where it likes to grow since it is usually darker and cooler. If you see fungus on the trunk, it is likely that the trunk is rotted on the inside and the tree is dead.

❹ Root Damage

Root damage can be hard to spot on a relatively young or newly planted tree. However, you can sometimes spot root damage yourself. For instance, look to see if the tree is leaning to one particular side. This is an indication that the root system is damaged or weakened. You can also look for epicormic shoots. These look like misplaced branches growing out of the bottom of a tree trunk. These two signs often indicate that a tree has damaged roots. If the tree roots are very large and stick out of the ground, look for damages done by lawn mowers, construction, wildlife, and pests. To confirm accurately if a tree has root damage, you would need to contact a licensed Indianapolis tree service for a professional inspection and assessment.

Still Unsure if Your Tree is Dead or Alive?

? Perform a Scratch Test!

Pull a few twigs from the tree and scratch a portion of the bark off. If the inner tissue is moist and green, the tree is alive. If it is brittle and dry, the tree is dead. Be sure to test three or four branches to be sure.

Indianapolis Tree Service

Call A Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for prompt and professional Indianapolis tree service. We are experienced tree care technicians that can resolve your tree problems, regardless of your projects size or scope. We offer a wide range of tree removal and tree services, for both residential and commercial properties. We even offer free estimates and free tree care advice!

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