Pest & Disease Management

Humans, squirrels, and birds are not the only ones to interact with trees. There is a countless number of creatures and organisms that get closer to trees than the tree might prefer. Beetles, bacteria, and fungi are just a few threats that can turn vigorous trees into nothing more than standing wood. Some trees have natural defense against some of these risks, but it is usually not enough. Give your trees a hand with professional tree pest and disease management. Timber Ridge Tree Care is proud to offer tree disease management in Grand Rapids. Feel free to call any time to schedule a flexible appointment, consultation, or on-site visit.

Common Tree Diseases

How do you know your tree is infected or infested? Understanding the signs of common tree diseases can help you act, whether that is by taking matters into your own hands or hiring a professional. Here are some common tree diseases to watch out for:

• Leaf Rust: Orange or red leaves re normal during fall, but orange spots and bubbles on tree leaves can indicate leaf rust caused by fungi.
• Fire Blight: Do your trees look like they have been scorched? Erwinia Amylovora, a bacterium, gives trees a burned or charred look, as if it was touched by fire.
• Powdery Mildew: If your trees look like they have been sprinkled with flour, then it might be time to treat the tree for harmful fungi.
• Gall: Picture warts or tumors on leaves, twigs, and branches. This is what gall looks like. There are over 1500 species of gall producers, most of which are insects and mites.
• Witch’s Broom: The name is fitting. This is a deformity in which a dense group of branches grow from a single point.
• Canker: A canker is generally an open wound that has been infected by a fungal or bacterial pathogen. These look like elongated lacerations on the trunk or branches of the tree.
• Root Rot: Poor drainage can leave your tree susceptible to this fungal disease. Overwatering and poor drainage can cause some of the roots to die back due to a lack of oxygen.

Inspect your tree’s leaves, branches, and trunk regularly to check for irregularities and signs of trouble. Pest infestations and diseases can spread quickly, bringing down the whole tree before you know it. Act without delay to save the tree’s life and prevent accidents caused by falling branches or trees.