If you value healthy trees, you’ll want to stay vigilant for the most common tree diseases on the East Coast. At Dos Amigos Tree Service, we provide expert tree services in Arlington, VA, that can diagnose and often cure sick trees. Keep reading to understand the six most common problems for trees in the area and how to recognize them.

Do All Diseases Kill Trees?

While problems with over-mulching can lead to issues like root rot, other challenges arise from insect infestations or illness. An annual inspection is essential for keeping trees healthy. While you can’t prevent every issue, if you catch a tree disease early, a certified arborist can sometimes cure it and prevent the need for removal.

Look For Signs of These Six Common Tree Illnesses or Infestations

Regularly inspect your trees. Catching the following problems early might save your tree:

1. Scale Insects and Mites Feed On Leaves

Scale insects and mites love chlorophyll. When they deplete this nutrient in the leaf, you’ll see yellow leaves, white leaf spots where the mites have removed the chlorophyll. Also, look for signs of holes in the leaves or the stalks that connect to the branches.

These insects are hard to see, and many homeowners don’t identify them until it’s too late. Professionals will treat these common tree diseases by pruning the affected area and spraying non-toxic insect deterrents.

2. Bagworms and Beetles Quickly Wreak Havoc

Bagworms are caterpillars that make their homes in trees and shrubs, stripping them of all foliage in a matter of weeks or months. As grubs, Japanese beetles can destroy roots. As adults, they have the same devastating effect as bagworms.

Early identification is the key to saving the tree. Call tree care experts the moment you notice large patches of missing leaves. The most reliable treatment method includes an eco-friendly pesticide.

3. Prevent Borers From Destroying the Bark

Certain insects feed on the tree’s bark rather than the roots or leaves. Left unchecked, these boring insects can cause problems like Dutch elm disease or canker disease.

Virginia has a particular issue with Emerald Ash Borer. In its larval stage, it lays eggs beneath the bark, destroying the tree’s structural integrity and ability to transport nutrients. In many cases, the experts must remove the entire tree to prevent the borers from spreading.

4. Anthracnose Manifests in Deciduous Trees

Deciduous trees (those that lose their leaves), like dogwood, maple, and oaks, have a high vulnerability to common tree diseases like anthracnose. This blight mainly affects the leaves. The fungus leaves lesions, open wounds, and rot in foliage and branches.

Look for small patches on the tree that look like open wounds or brown spots. Pruning the affected branches and using a copper-based fungicide could save the tree.

5. Powdery Mildew Leaves Obvious Signs

Powdery mildew is a pernicious fungus that manifests as a clear white powder on the leaves. Over time, the leaves will fall off long before fall. Your tree will experience stunted growth. Pruning and fungicides can often help the tree survive.

6. Verticillium Wilt Is an Invasive Fungus

This disease causes undersized and brown leaves. You may also notice large portions of the branches wilting or dying. Tree professionals treat it similarly to other infestations and can save the tree if they catch the signs early.

Schedule Reliable Tree Care at the First Sign of Trouble

Now that you know the signs of the most common tree diseases, you can call Dos Amigos Tree Service immediately about diagnosing a dead or dying tree or saving one. We’re passionate about all the benefits trees grant and want people to take pride in their yards.

Get a free estimate by calling (703) 300-6103 today!