Learn about common tree diseases and how a surgeon can help. Discover the signs of infection, treatment options, and when to call a professional to keep your trees healthy and safe.
Trees are an essential part of our landscapes. They provide shade, beauty, and homes for wildlife. But just like any living thing, trees can suffer from illness. Spotting a disease early and getting expert help is key to keeping your tree healthy and safe.
Common Tree Diseases in the UK
In the UK, several tree diseases are becoming more common, especially due to climate changes and increased movement of plants. These include:
Ash Dieback – A fungal disease that causes leaves to fall, branches to die back, and eventually the whole tree to weaken.
Dutch Elm Disease – Spread by beetles, this blocks water flow in elms, leading to leaf wilting and death.
Oak Decline – Often caused by stress and pests, this affects the strength and appearance of our native oaks.
Honey Fungus – An aggressive fungus that spreads underground and attacks the roots, often killing the tree from below.
Leaf Spot and Canker – These infections cause discoloured leaves and cracks in the bark, making it easier for further damage to occur.
Each of these can seriously harm trees, so knowing what to look for is vital.
Signs Your Tree Might Be Infected
Catching disease early gives your tree the best chance of recovery. Look out for discoloured leaves, especially if they turn yellow or brown out of season.
Cracks in the bark, particularly those that ooze or appear sunken, can also signal infection.
Dead branches, often in the upper canopy, are another warning sign.
Fungal growth near the base, such as mushrooms or soft, decaying wood, may indicate internal rot. If you notice any of these issues, it’s best to contact a professional before the problem worsens.
How Tree Surgeons Spot the Problem
Tree surgeons are trained to identify the early signs of disease and assess the overall health of a tree. They begin by carefully inspecting the visible parts of the tree, including the bark, leaves, and branches, looking for symptoms such as unusual discolouration, cracks, or dead wood.
In many cases, they also examine the base of the tree, the condition of the roots, and the surrounding soil, which can reveal important clues about underlying issues.
Their experience allows them to recognise patterns that might go unnoticed by the untrained eye. Using their expert knowledge, they can distinguish between natural ageing, environmental stress, and serious disease, allowing them to recommend the most appropriate treatment or action.
Treatments and Solutions
After diagnosing the problem, a tree surgeon will suggest the most suitable treatment. Often, this involves selective pruning to remove infected or dead branches, helping stop the disease from spreading and giving the tree a better chance to recover.
In some cases, chemical treatments like fungicides or insecticides may be used, always with care to protect nearby plants and wildlife. If poor soil is contributing to the issue, improving it through mulching or aeration can make a big difference.
Sadly, not every tree can be saved. If the disease is too advanced or the structure is unsafe, removal may be the best option. A qualified tree surgeon will handle this safely and with as little disruption as possible.
Why You Should Call a Tree Surgeon
It can be tempting to ignore the signs of disease or attempt a quick fix yourself, but trees are complex and require expert care. A trained tree surgeon doesn’t just handle the physical work - they offer the knowledge needed to properly diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. With their help, you can avoid the risks of falling branches, spreading infections, or having to remove a much-loved tree.
Tree surgeons are an essential part of tree care. They not only manage visible problems but also provide advice on how to prevent disease in the future. From choosing the right species for your garden to regular health checks and maintenance, professional help is the best way to keep your trees strong, safe, and healthy for years to come.
If you're looking for a reliable tree surgeon in Birmingham, Wolverhampton, or Dudley, A&T Tree Services Ltd is here to help. From expert pruning and tree health checks to safe removals and emergency call-outs, our experienced team is ready to take care of all your tree care needs.
