How to Help an Unhealthy Tree

A healthy tree provides beauty and enjoyment for generations.

When a tree appears unhealthy and is infested with insects, it's natural to assume that the pests are the cause. However, according to an article published by the U.S. Forest Service, infestations are often a symptom of a greater problem; a tree weakened by poor treatment, neglect or disease. There steps a homeowner can take to restore the health of a tree once the source of the problem has been discovered. Unfortunately, not all unhealthy trees can be revived.

Things You'll Need

• Hoe
• Mulch
• PH testing kit
• Sod lifter
• Limb saw
• Fungicide

Instructions

1. Check the soil around the roots for compaction. Loosen compacted soil with a hoe, taking care not to disturb exposed roots. Remove some of the old soil and replace it with a 2- to 3-inch layer of organic mulch.

2. Test the soil pH where the tree grows. Many health problems experienced by trees are related to the wrong type of soil. Learn the proper pH levels for the tree in question and amend the soil as needed.

3. Remove lawn from around the tree trunk. Mowing too near a tree damages the trunk and exposed roots, weaken the tree. Use a sod lifter to cut and lift sections of grass from around the trunk. Leave an approximately 3-foot, grass-free circle around the tree.

4. Prune broken or damaged limbs from the tree. Perform regular pruning while the tree is dormant, usually in late winter or early spring. Prune dead or dying limb as soon as the damage is spotted.

5. Look for signs of rot and other root diseases. Fungi growing on exposed roots, small, yellow foliage, mutated leaves, scorch and dying branches are visible symptoms of root disease. Fumigating the soil kills some root diseases if they have not spread too far.

6. Do not increase the amount of fertilizer or water recommended for the particular kind of tree you are treating. Most trees are fertilized only in the spring. Too much water or fertilizer may add to the tree's poor health.

7. Consult an expert if you are unsure of the tree's condition. A drying tree is a safety hazard that should be removed quickly if it is too diseased to recover.

References

• Colorado State University Extension; Healthy Roots and Healthy Trees; J.M. Sillick, et al.; March 2009
• U.S. Forest Service: Homeowner's Guide for Beautiful, Safe and Healthy Trees