04 JUN 2019
When you see someone with unusually pale skin or blotches, you presume that they have some sort of problem with their health. Just as humans show health issues through their skin, trees can indicate that they are suffering from disease or nutritional deficiencies through the color of their leaves. The certified arborists at Sesmas Tree Services can look at a trees leaves and tell you whether they are healthy or not. In the name of sharing knowledge, we put together this article to give you some tips on deciphering what your tree leaves are telling you. If you have any specific questions or concerns, you can call Sesmas Tree Services to speak with a helpful arborist. You can also schedule a flexible appointment to have an arborist come check up on your trees in person.
Tree Leaves During Drought Season
Water is the source of life for all living things and trees are no exception. Though tree leaves change colors during the fall season, leaves that turn yellow or orange during any other season can indicate dehydration. Leaf necrosis, for instance, is a classic sign of drought stress. Trees with shallow roots are especially susceptible to this problem. If you notice that your leaves are turning yellow with brown blotches moving in from the tips, then it is time to grab the hose. Give your tree a nice, long watering once a week to quench its thirst. Dont overdo it, however. Wait until the soil is dried out before watering it again.
Trees with Nutritional Deficiencies
The quality of the soil around your tree is crucial for the trees health. The soil is where the tree gets its nutrients after all. Iron, manganese, phosphorous, nitrogen, and even pH levels in the soil have considerable influences on the health of the tree. Insufficient amounts of manganese or iron, for example, can lead to interveinal chlorosis. These two nutrients are vital for photosynthesis. You can detect interveinal chlorosis by looking for leaves that go yellow but only in between veins.
So, how can you be sure that the soil and nutrient deficiency is the culprit? We recommend that you get a soil test. Then, address the specific deficiencies with the respective compost.
Identifying Diseased Leaves
If you notice that your leaves are covered with orange or brown spots, then consider the possibility of disease. Leaves with unsightly spots, regardless of their size or color, are likely inflicted with some sort of fungal disease. It is important that you detect and deal with diseased leaves early on. Diseases can spread and end up killing the whole tree. Nip these at the bud. Professional pruning is an option for diseases that have spread a lot.
Pest Control
Do your tree leaves look like theyve had someone, or something, take a bite out of it? Pests are trying to survive just like we are, but they can get out of control and threaten the life of a tree. A few nibbles are okay, but if leaves are starting to look like cheese with holes everywhere, then it might be time to act.
Call the Professionals
If you would like to hire an ISA certified arborist to take a look at your tree leaves, then call Sesmas Tree Services. Our arborists are trained, certified, and equipped to detect, diagnose, and take care of many issues. Call now to speak with a friendly representative and schedule your appointment.
