Often times, urban trees are vulnerable to pests and diseases because they are highly stressed. Stress can result from a variety of factors including the following:
- Drought
- Paved surfaces that interfere with water absorption
- Restricted root spaces
- Compacted soils
- Competition from dense layers of turf that surround a tree
Note: your trees should have layer of mulch surrounding diameter – call our Hometown Landscape division @ 301-490-5577 to assist with this recommendation.
Trees are also often times planted where they shouldn’t be or can be damaged from construction or heavy equipment. There is no single solution for managing all these issues; however, Hometown Tree Experts could assess this issue to ensure improving the overall health of your trees. Research has shown that proper care can increase the fine root density, helps to reduce water loss during dry and hot periods, and could increase the protective barrier of leaves. The trees are also greener and are better able to deal with stress. Call Hometown Tree Experts for solutions to your possible stress management @ 301-250-1033.
How to Recognize a Stressed Tree
Stress shows up before a tree declines for good, and early signs give you time to act. Watch for leaves that are smaller, paler, or thinner than normal, branch tips that die back, and premature fall color in late summer. Sparse canopies, sudden sprouting along the trunk, and bark that cracks or sheds can all point to a tree under pressure. Because stressed trees attract boring insects and fungal diseases, catching these signs early often prevents a larger problem.
Reducing Stress on Urban and Suburban Trees
Many Maryland yards place trees in difficult conditions, such as compacted soil, limited root space near pavement, and turf grass competing right up to the trunk. A few steps ease that pressure. Replace the ring of grass around the base with a wide, shallow layer of mulch to cool the soil and hold moisture. Water deeply during drought rather than lightly and often. Avoid piling soil over roots or parking equipment within the root zone during projects. Where soil is compacted, an arborist can loosen it and improve aeration.
If a valued tree looks stressed and you are not sure why, a professional evaluation can identify the cause. Explore our tree health assessment service or call Hometown Tree Experts at 301-250-1033.