Spring Tree Problems: What to Look Out For

Date May 07, 2022

Author TreeNewal Staff

Now that the weather is finally starting to warm up, it’s time to get outside and enjoy the beautiful spring trees. But before you do, make sure you are aware of some common tree problems that can occur this time of year. One of the most common issues is bugs eating away at the leaves. Another issue is improper tree care leading to damage during the spring thaw. We’ll go over all of these problems and more in this blog post so that you can be prepared to deal with any issues your trees may experience this season!

What Insects Should I Look Out For?

Spring is high time for insects, and many of them will target trees as their host. Some of the most common insects that can cause problems for trees are:

– Aphids –

Aphids are small, soft-bodied bugs that can be found in large colonies on the undersides of leaves. They suck the sap out of plants, which can lead to distorted growth, yellowing leaves, and stunted plant growth.

– Caterpillars –

Caterpillars are the larvae of moths and butterflies. They’re often brightly colored, and while they make beautiful butterflies, they also love to eat your tree’s leaves. Caterpillars can strip a tree of its leaves in a matter of days, so if you see them on your trees, be sure to remove them as soon as possible.

– Japanese Beetles –

Japanese beetles are a type of leaf beetle that is native to Japan. They are about the size of a penny and are metallic-green with bronze wings. Japanese beetles cause extensive damage to trees and should be treated immediately.

– Scale Insects –

Scale insects are small, wingless bugs that attach themselves to plants. They look like small bumps on your trees and plants. They can cause yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and even death in extreme cases. Scale can be difficult to treat. If you suspect your tree has scale, contact an ISA Certified Arborist, like TreeNewal.

– Spider Mites –

Spider mites are very common in the spring and summer months. While they are microscopic, you can see the small webs they use to get around your tree. Spider mites can spread to other plants and trees nearby, so it’s important to treat them before they spread throughout your property.

Each of these bugs can cause serious damage to your trees if they are left unchecked. If you suspect your tree is being affected by insects, call TreeNewal today!

What Other Spring Tree Problems Should I Be Aware Of?

In addition to bugs, there are a few other common problems that can affect trees in the spring. These include:

– Freeze Damage

Freeze damage is a common problem following hard winters. Thinning of the canopy, dead branch tips in the spring, cracks in the bark, and damage from pests can all be signs that a tree suffered freeze damage.

– Sunscald

Sunscald is a type of damage that can occur when the sun warms the bark of a tree too much. The tissue under the bark is actually damaged by the heat from the sun. This attracts wood-boring insects and results in dead spots on the lower trunk. . This damage is most common on young trees or thin-barked species, such as maples, or on trees that have adapted to shaded conditions, which are suddenly changed.

– Wind Damage

Wind can also cause damage to trees during the spring. High winds can break branches or even uproot trees. If you have any trees that are damaged by wind, it’s important to have them checked by an arborist as soon as possible.

Should I Fertilize My Tree This Spring?

Fertilizing your trees in the spring can help them to recover from any winter damage and prepare them for the growing season. However, it’s important to use the right type of fertilizer and apply it correctly. Otherwise, you could do more harm than good. If you’re not sure how to fertilize your trees, contact an ISA Certified Arborist for help with your tree.

Where Can I Learn More?

If you’re interested in learning more about caring for your tree this spring, check out these articles:

4 Tips for Effective Spring Tree Care

The Most Common Tree Diseases in Texas This Spring: Part 1 Part 2

Why North Texas Trees Need Fertilization

If you are concerned about any of these spring tree problems, or if you think your tree may be experiencing one of these issues, contact TreeNewal today. Our ISA Certified arborists can help diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action.

To learn more about Spring Tree Problems: What to Look Out For, call our Argyle and Southlake-based teams

at tel:(817) 592-6846 or send us a message.

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