How to tell if your tree is growing in a healthy manner
by Julius Manninen
There are many benefits of having trees on your property. Because these essential plants take a long time to mature, you should carefully check on their growth to ensure that they remain healthy. The good news is that you can tell when a tree is sick or experiencing other complications. Issues may manifest themselves as wilting leaves, rotten barks or unstable trunks. So, what information do you need to have handy when checking your trees for issues?
A healthy, stable trunk
The tree trunk supports the entire plant and is essential for healthy growth. In fact, the trunk is responsible for transporting nutrients from roots all the way up to each leaf. The high nutrients contained in tree trunks make them vulnerable to pests, fungi and other diseases. This is why regular pruning is critical for healthy growth. Pruning removes unneeded portions of the tree and reduces the likelihood that your trunk will become infected.
Growth at the expected yearly pace
Although many trees take years to reach full maturity, they grow at a healthy, predictable pace. You can detect yearly growth by marking the tree trunk and checking for changes over time. Compare the growth of your tree to similar species within the area.
No infected leaves or branches
Wilting leaves and dead branches are a clear sign that nutrients aren't being transported to all parts of the tree. This may be due to blocked pathways in your tree trunk, overwatering or contaminated soil. Excessive sunlight exposure may also be causing nutrients to evaporate too quickly from the surface of your leaves. Make sure you check your leaves and branches for proper health. They should retain a natural shape and colour without appearing too dry or falling from the tree when it's not autumn yet.
No pest infestations
Pests can significantly affect the health of your tree. For example, termites chew through barks and tree trunks to obtain cellulose that they can convert into energy. Worms eat leaves and cause them to wilt faster than usual, while other insects may consume flowers and fruits produced by the tree. This is why you should inspect the tree for any infestations and get treatment in a timely manner. The good news is that tree companies do more than just cut down trees. They can also help you maintain the health of your tree, so you don't have to prematurely bring it down.
For more information, contact an arborist.
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About Me
Welcome to my blog. My name is Emilie. When I turned thirty, I received the most thoughtful gift from my mum: a tropical tree in a pot. I loved it. I would have never imagined buying something like that, but it lit up my home, and it produced yummy fruit. After having such a positive experience with a potted tree, I decided to invest in a few more. Through the years, I have learned how to take care of potted trees, how to plant them outside and how to ensure they are getting the light they need inside. If you want to buy a tree in a pot or if you already have one, explore these posts. They will guide you toward great tree care.