The bark is falling off my tree. Why is this happening?
Bark can naturally fall from the tree due to the tree’s variety or growth process. On the other hand, serious insect infestations or tree diseases can cause bark falling. It is always best to take proactive measures and contact an experienced tree company when you are in question.
What tree disease cause bark to fall off trees?
- Dutch Elm Disease: This deadly tree threat is increasing quickly throughout Fort Worth established residential neighborhoods and is spreading swiftly in Texas. Dutch elm disease targets all elm varieties and destroys the tree’s vascular structure. Early DED symptoms include thinning foliage and dead branches. In the later stages of infection the tree will manifest brittle, peeling bark. Dutch elm disease will destroy a tree in less than eight weeks so call an arborist that treats sick trees immediately if your tree has peeling bark.
- Hypoxylon Canker: Hypoxylon canker infection is destroying oak trees rapidly in the Fort Worth area and throughout Texas. This fungal pathogen targets all oak varieties and infects trees that are weak, wounded or have suffered damage. The tree will at first exhibit reduced growth, premature defoliation and yellowed leaves. In the advanced stages of hypoxylon canker disease crusty patches on the bark of the tree’s trunk and branches and dark, flaking bark will develop. The tree is beyond saving when severe symptoms become obvious and the tree then becomes a danger to life and property. Contact an arbor care specialist promptly if you have a sick tree or it is exhibiting any of the above symptoms.
- Fireblight: Targeting fruit trees that produce pit-centered (pome) fruit, this lethal bacterial pathogen has no known cure. It spreads at an alarming rate during cool spring Texas weather and will quickly kill your tree if early treatment is not administered. In the advanced stages of fireblight infection the tree’s bark blackens, becomes brittle and falls off. Call a tree doctor immediately if your tree appears to be unhealthy or its bark is peeling and falling off.
What insects pests make tree bark fall off?
- Wood Borers: These are the most terrorizing insect pests that cause immense damage to trees. The infested tree will first have an overall unhealthy appearance and then exhibit premature defoliation, drooping leaves and reduction of new growth. Dead branches, D-shaped marks on the tree’s bark and bark falling occur in the later stages of wood borer infestation. Early treatment is essential in order to save the tree so do not hesitate in contacting an experienced tree company if you observe any of these symptoms or your tree’s health appears to be declining.
- Pine Bark Beetles: Fir tree varieties in the Fort Worth area are being ravaged by these destructive beetles and their infestation is increasing rapidly. They thrive in Texas summer heat and target trees that have been weakened, stressed or damaged. Pin-dot holes on the tree’s bark, bark flaking and bark falling off are indicative of pine bark beetle invasion. Remember, your is beyond saving if it already appears to be dying; therefore, call a tree care specialist when your tree first begins to exhibit symptoms of declining health.
When is it okay for the bark to fall of trees?
Natural Tree Growth Process: As trees grow larger they will naturally outgrow and shed their old bark. This is the natural tree growth process and there is no cause for alarm.
Tree Varieties: Sycamore, silver maple, birch and scotch pine are amongst the numerous tree varieties that naturally shed their bark in peeling strips or large pieces. If you have questions as to whether your tree is a variety that naturally sheds its bark then contact a professional arbor care company and request a complimentary consultation.
How can I find out what is causing the bark to fall off?
Call the best arborist in Fort Worth, Texas and request a tree health assessment and diagnostic evaluation for your tree. The ISA certified arborist will closely examine the tree in question and complete a tree evaluation report. If it is determined that your tree has been inflicted with a tree disease or insect infestation then the tree expert will administer the treatment necessary to eliminate the problem and see to it that your tree is saved and its health is restored.