BLOG How to Identify and Address Common Tree Diseases Jul 30, 2025

Identifying and addressing common tree diseases is crucial for maintaining the health and beauty of your landscape. Trees, like all living organisms, are susceptible to various ailments that can significantly impact their growth, structural integrity, and even survival. At Pro Tree Service, we understand the importance of timely identification and management of tree diseases to ensure your trees remain robust and vibrant. In this guide, we'll walk you through some of the most common tree diseases and offer practical tips on how to tackle them effectively.

First, it's essential to recognize the signs of a sick tree. Common symptoms of tree diseases include discolored or wilting leaves, premature leaf drop, unusual growth on branches or bark, and dieback of branches. If you notice any of these indicators, it's imperative to take action quickly to prevent the disease from spreading.

One of the prevalent tree diseases is apple scab, primarily affecting crabapple trees. This disease is caused by a fungus that results in dark, scabby lesions on the leaves and fruit. To combat apple scab, it's crucial to maintain good air circulation around the tree by pruning it annually and removing fallen leaves that harbor the fungus.

Another common issue is the presence of leaf spots, which appear as discolored patches on the leaves of many types of trees. These spots are often caused by bacteria or fungi and, although they rarely cause severe damage, can stress the tree if left untreated. You can manage leaf spots by ensuring your trees are well-fed and watered, which helps them resist infection. Additionally, removing and destroying infected leaves can prevent the spread of the disease.

Dutch elm disease, a devastating fungal infection spread by bark beetles, primarily affects elm trees. Early symptoms include wilting yellow leaves and canopy thinning. Unfortunately, this disease progresses rapidly, and affected trees often have to be removed to protect surrounding healthy trees. Preventive measures include regular inspections for beetle activity and injecting trees with fungicides, particularly if they've been exposed to the disease.

Fire blight is another destructive disease that affects apple and pear trees. It is caused by bacteria and exhibits symptoms such as cankers on the bark and blackened leaves and shoots, giving the appearance of having been scorched by fire. Pruning infected branches well below any visible damage during the dormant season can help manage this disease. It's also critical to sterilize pruning tools between cuts to prevent further spread.

Trees are an invaluable part of our environment, providing shade, beauty, and habitat for wildlife. As such, keeping them healthy is a responsibility every property owner should shoulder. In addition to monitoring for diseases, regular maintenance such as pruning, mulching, and fertilization supports overall tree health and resilience against diseases.

When you diagnose a tree disease early and take appropriate corrective measures, you not only protect your investment but also contribute to a healthier and more aesthetic environment. At Pro Tree Service, our team of experts is on hand to assist with diagnosing and treating your trees, ensuring they thrive for years to come. Whether you're dealing with a suspected case of oak wilt or suspect a fungal infection, contacting professionals can prevent small issues from becoming significant, costly problems.

Caring for trees may seem like a daunting task, but with informed decisions and the right support, your trees will flourish. Stay vigilant, act swiftly at the first sign of trouble, and don't hesitate to seek professional help to preserve these natural assets.