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Common Tree Problems

Common Tree
Problems in Toronto

Familiarize yourself with common tree problems so you can easily spot issues and take steps to prevent tree failure.

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What Are the Most Common Tree Problems in Toronto & GTA?

It is important to monitor the health of a tree throughout all growing stages. From saplings to mature trees, there are several common issues that trees in Toronto may experience. Familiarizing yourself with these potential problems makes it easier to identify them on your own trees. Early intervention is essential when it comes to the preservation and restoration of healthy trees.

Things to Consider Before Planting a Tree
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Disease & Pests

There are a wide variety of diseases and pests that can severely affect the health and viability of Toronto trees. Some of the most common ones that Local Arborist deals with are:

Dutch Elm Disease

Dutch Elm Disease

Beetles carry a fungus between elm trees that causes this disease. Signs of DED include wilting, curling, and yellowing leaves that fall off the tree. It is incredibly devastating if not quickly identified and treated by a qualified arborist.

Anthracnose

Anthracnose

The most familiar symptom of anthracnose is dry brown or black spots on the edges of leaves. It is not usually a fatal disease, but trees with compromised health have a higher risk of failure.

Gypsy Moth

Gypsy Moth

A severe gypsy moth infestation only takes 2 years to kill off a tree. The moths lay their eggs in large tan colored, suede-like sacs on the tree. When the larvae hatch, they eat all the new spring leaves.

Emerald Ash Borer

Emerald Ash Borer

If a tree becomes infested with Emerald Ash Borer, it is almost guaranteed to die. The larvae tunnel under the bark and disrupt the flow of essential nutrients throughout the tree. Your first indication of an infestation may be the leaves thinning out at the top of the tree.

Fire Blight

Fire Blight

This disease affects many kinds of trees but tends to be particularly detrimental to fruit trees like apple and pear. A tree suffering from fire blight will look like it has been burned, and the fruit will likely be shrivelled or covered in cankers and lesions. Fire Blight also makes trees more susceptible to other disease, which is why it is important to treat quickly.

Severe Weather Conditions
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Severe Weather Conditions

In Toronto and the GTA, we are no strangers to severe weather conditions. Strong winds, heavy snowfall, ice storms, and flooding call all cause trees to fall or branches to break. Drought conditions can cause browning and compromise the structural integrity of a tree due to the severe lack of water.

Poor Growing Environment
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Poor Growing Environment

Trees can experience a failure to thrive if the proper conditions for growth are not met. Compacted soil, lack of nutrients, and over crowding can all seriously impact the health of a tree.

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FAQs

How do I know if my tree has a disease?

The most common signs of disease include leaf loss (during growing seasons), leaf discoloration, dead or dying branches, holes or cracks in the trunk, fungal growth, and many more. If you notice any of these symptoms you should contact an arborist for an official diagnosis and remediation plan. Local Arborist has extensive experience dealing with diseased trees.

What’s the best way to keep a tree healthy?

Every living thing needs food, water, and air – trees are no exception. Investing in quality tree care services ensures the healthiest, most vibrant trees. Local Arborist provides tree trimming, tree pruning, disease and pest management, deep root fertilization and many other services to help your trees thrive.

Can a dead tree be revived?

You cannot bring anything that is truly dead back to life. There are steps, however, that can be taken to restore the health of some sick or damaged trees. When the risk of keeping a tree around becomes greater than the benefit of doing so, removal is the best option. If you have a tree that looks dead or dying, it is best to contact a qualified arborist to evaluate the situation. Local Arborist provides Tree Hazard Assessments to determine the likelihood (and possible consequences) of tree failure.

Do you have a problem tree on your property that need to be addressed?

Contact Local Arborist today for a complimentary estimate on all your Tree Maintenance needs!

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Services You May Need

tree health care in Toronto

Tree Health Care

Protect your trees against damage from pests and disease, such as Asian Longhorned Beetle or Blister Rust, with customized Tree Health Care Services.

tree pruning and trimming in Toronto

Pruning & Trimming

Maintain optimal growth and development for your trees with regular pruning and trimming

tree planting in Toronto

Tree Planting & Transplanting

Green up your property with new trees or shrubs.

arborist reports in Toronto

Arborist Reports & Consulting

Receive a detailed review of tree health and vigour as well as a plan to optimize tree growth

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