How to Spot Tree Diseases and Pests Emerging in Early Spring

As the weather warms up and nature awakens, trees begin to show new growth. However, early spring is also the time when tree diseases and pests become more active. Spotting these issues early can prevent significant damage and ensure the health and longevity of your trees. At Elite Trees, we provide expert tree and garden services to help you identify, treat, and prevent diseases and pest infestations.

Common Signs of Tree Diseases and Pest Activity

Recognising the early symptoms of tree diseases and pest infestations can help protect your trees from irreversible damage. Here are some common signs to watch for:

1. Discoloured or Wilting Leaves
   • Leaves turning yellow, brown, or developing spots may indicate fungal infections like anthracnose or bacterial diseases.
   • Premature leaf drop can also be a sign of stress caused by pests such as aphids or scale insects.
2. Unusual Bark Changes
   • Cracked, peeling, or sunken bark could signal infections like cankers.
   • Oozing sap or dark streaks on the bark may indicate bacterial or fungal growth.
3. Presence of Fungi or Mould
   • Mushrooms growing at the tree’s base may indicate internal decay.
   • Powdery mildew on leaves is a common fungal disease in warmer spring conditions.
4. Pests and Holes in Leaves or Bark
   • Chewed leaves, tunnels in the bark, or small holes may be caused by beetles, borers, or caterpillars.
   • Sawdust-like material around the trunk suggests the presence of wood-boring insects.
5. Stunted or Abnormal Growth
   • Deformed or stunted leaves and branches can indicate viral or bacterial infections.
   • Galls (abnormal growths) on leaves or stems may be caused by insects or fungi.

How Elite Trees Can Help

At Elite Trees, we offer a wide range of tree and garden services to diagnose, treat, and prevent tree diseases and pest infestations. Our professional arborists are equipped with the knowledge and tools to keep your trees healthy and thriving.

Tree Inspections and Surveys

Our experts perform thorough tree inspections and surveys to assess the overall health of your trees, identify potential issues, and recommend appropriate treatments.

Tree Pruning and Deadwooding

Regular pruning and deadwooding help remove infected or weak branches, preventing the spread of disease and improving tree structure.

Tree Felling and Removal

In cases where trees are severely affected and pose a safety risk, we provide professional tree felling and removal services to protect your property.

Crown Maintenance Services

• Crown Thinning: Reduces density, allowing better air circulation and sunlight penetration.
• Crown Reduction: Minimises stress on tree branches, reducing breakage risks.
• Crown Lifting: Improves clearance for pathways and structures.

Tree Pollarding and Stump Grinding

Pollarding helps control tree growth, making them less susceptible to disease, while stump grinding and removal prevent regrowth and eliminate pest habitats.

Grounds Maintenance and Vegetation Clearing

We ensure your landscape remains healthy by providing vegetation clearing, and regular grounds maintenance.

Protect Your Trees This Spring!

Don’t let tree diseases and pests take over your beautiful landscape. By spotting early signs and taking proactive measures, you can maintain the health of your trees all year round.

Contact Elite Trees today for professional tree and garden services tailored to your needs for both domestic and commercial properties. We will also provide you with a FREE, complimentary garden tree survey while we are there. Call us now to book

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