Is It Seasonal or Is It Dying?
As fall approaches, leaves will begin changing color and dropping from numerous tree species in Southern Oregon. Many trees will then become dormant throughout the winter months, appearing as if they are dead, no longer needing as much food, water, or sunlight to survive.
During these changes, it may be hard to notice if a tree is acting out of character or if it is simply changing with the season. Knowing signs to look out for in case one of your trees is dying can be important to prevent any potential diseases from spreading to your other healthy trees.
Signs Your Tree Is Experiencing More Than Seasonal Changes
These signs can help you determine if your tree is experiencing problems:
- Brittle bark. If you are concerned your tree is enduring more than just seasonal changes, check the bark. You can do this by scratching away a piece of the bark from the stem and examining the underneath. If you notice that the bark is becoming more brittle or falling off the tree, this is not normal. Healthy bark should have green hues underneath or even be damp, indicating that water is still moving throughout the tree.
- Examine the leaves. Although it is normal in the fall for leaves to change color and fall off the tree, it is not normal if the leaves on your tree turn brown or dry up but do not fall. Although you may not think twice about this with all the change in the air, your tree could be dying.
- Pests begin to make their home in your tree. Insects typically prefer dead trees to live inside instead of alive ones. If you begin noticing your tree is hosting more than just birds and squirrels, it may be beginning to decay and die.
Concerned About Your Tree? Contact Us Today
It is normal to grow attached to your trees, to see them as part of your home or a way of shelter from the sun, but just like humans, trees can catch illnesses and even die from old age. If you suspect your tree might be dying, contact us today.
