May 2017: Insect and Disease – Part 2

Here at Top Tree LLC, we offer our guidance, experience, and knowledge to all of our clients and potential clients with a high level of passion. We look forward to talking shop with you and no matter what, we welcome any questions you have regarding your trees and plants on your property.

Diagnosis

Correct diagnosis of plant health problems requires a careful examination of the situation.

1. Accurately identify the plant. Many insects and diseases are plant-specific. This helps limit the list of suspected diseases and disorders.
2. Look for a pattern of abnormality. Compare the affected plant with other plants on the site, especially those of the same species. Non-uniform damage patterns may indicate insects or diseases. Uniform damage over a large area (perhaps across several plant species) usually indicates disorders caused by such factors as physical injury, poor drainage, chemical damage, or weather.
3. Carefully examine the landscape. The history of the property and adjacent land may reveal many problems. Most living pathogens take a relatively long time to spread throughout an area, so if a large percentage of plants becomes affected virtually overnight, a pathogen or insect is probably not involved.
4. Examine the roots. Brown- or black-colored roots may signal problems. Brown roots often indicate dry soil conditions or the presence of toxic chemicals. Black roots usually reflect overly wet soil or the presence of root-rotting organisms.
5. Check the trunk and branches. Wounds caused by weather, fire, mechanical damage, or animals can provide entrances for pathogens and wood-rotting organisms. Large defects may indicate a potentially hazardous tree.
6. Note the position and appearance of affected leaves. Dead leaves at the top of the tree are often the result of environmental or mechanical root stress.

Twisted or curled leaves may indicate viral infection, insect feeding, or exposure to herbicides. The size and color of the foliage may tell a great deal about the plant’s condition.

Going Forward With Your Tree Care
We look forward to helping you with all of your tree removal and tree trimming needs. When, and if, you have any questions about your trees, shrubs, or any other greenery on your property, we can help. We look forward to hearing from you soon because we are your West Richland tree maintenance specialists.