Hey neighbors,
Now that the weather’s warming up and we’re all stepping back into our yards with a little more daylight and a lot more motivation—let’s take a moment to talk about your trees.
After a long, wet winter, your trees may be showing signs of stress that aren’t always obvious at first glance. That’s why this time of year is a great opportunity to take a slow walk around your yard, look up, look down, and really check in with your trees. Are they thriving? Or is something quietly off?
What to Look For
Here are a few things I encourage homeowners to keep an eye out for:
- Mushrooms or fungal growth on trunks or roots – This can be a sign of internal decay, even if the tree still looks healthy up top.
- Cracks, cavities, or peeling bark – These could point to structural issues.
- Dead branches or sparse leafing – If one part of a tree is lagging behind the rest, there could be root or vascular damage.
- Leaning or shifting – Especially if it's new, this can be a red flag.
Even subtle signs can mean there’s something going on beneath the surface. That’s where a licensed arborist (like me!) comes in.
Why It’s Important to Call a Professional
It’s not just about keeping your landscape looking good—it’s about safety. A compromised tree can be at risk of failure, which means risk to property, power lines, or people. A professional arborist has the training to evaluate the whole tree system—from roots to canopy—and make informed recommendations, whether it’s pruning, monitoring, or in some cases, removal.
Plus, we can often catch problems early enough to manage them through plant health care strategies before things progress too far.
A Closer Look at Tree Decay
If you’ve noticed mushrooms or other fungal growth on your trees, this article is a fantastic resource:
- Wood-Decay Fungi, Part 2: Identifying Important Species
It covers several species of decay fungi you might encounter and how to spot them. Some fungi are more aggressive than others, and knowing the difference can help guide your next steps. Information is key as some are quite beneficial as well.
So, as you're pulling out patio furniture and firing up the grill, take a minute to look up into your trees. If you see anything unusual—or just want peace of mind—get in touch with a licensed arborist. We’re here to help keep your trees (and everything under them) safe and healthy.
Here’s to a safe and beautiful season ahead,
Cole Stevens, ISA Certified Arborist PN-7909A
Canopy Solutions, LLC.
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