When you think of tree service companies, like A-1 Expert Tree Service, you probably picture tree removal or trimming services. However, many tree service professionals offer other services for customers, such as tree evaluation and care. This type of service is used to diagnose and treat common diseases that many trees are affected by each year. Here is a list of tree diseases common in the United States.

Sooty Mold

Sooty mold disease can be identified by the black coating that covers the leaves and branches of the tree. The coating is caused by secretions from insects and is known as honeydew. The higher the amount of honeydew, the more coating will appear on the tree. Tree service professionals can treat the disease by using insecticides.

Canker Disease

Canker disease attacks many kinds of trees, such as willows, spruce, or pines. The canker appears as a sunken lesion on the bark of the tree. The lesion may secrete sap depending on the type of the tree. It will also make the inside of the bark turn black and can give off a bad smell if the disease is bad enough. If branches are affected by the disease, the leaves on that branch will be smaller than normal and less bright in color. Professionals can treat the tree by removing the diseased parts of the tree and keeping an eye on it for future attacks.

Heart Rot

Heart rot disease is commonly found in hardwoods, such as oak trees. It can be diagnosed by the fungus conks that appear on the bark of the tree. The conks are often shell-shaped or can even resemble hooves. The disease usually shows up on older trees, particularly any that have faced stem injuries in the past. Tree service companies can prevent the disease from happening by showing owners how to keep injuries from happening to the trees, such as cutting limbs in a clean cut.

Black Root Rot

Black root rot disease is caused by a fungus called Thielaviopsis basicola. The common symptoms of the disease are wilting, defoliation, and yellowing of leaves on the tree or plant. The roots of the tree will have black spots. Treatment for black root rot includes fungicides, avoiding re-potting in affected pots, and keeping work areas clean to avoid spreading the fungus to other plants or trees.

If you suspect your trees are diseased, it is important to call a local professional to treat the disease so it doesn't spread to other trees in the area. The treatment and cost to remove the disease will vary depending on the company and type of disease.

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