{"id":9009,"date":"2026-09-03T19:52:48","date_gmt":"2026-09-03T19:52:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bartlett.com\/blog\/?p=9009"},"modified":"2026-09-03T19:52:48","modified_gmt":"2026-09-03T19:52:48","slug":"symptoms-of-an-unhealthy-tree","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.bartlett.com\/blog\/symptoms-of-an-unhealthy-tree\/","title":{"rendered":"Symptoms of an unhealthy tree you should not ignore"},"content":{"rendered":"

You know there are health symptoms people should not overlook. It\u2019s the same for your trees! They often display key signs indicating problems exist or could develop if ignored.<\/p>\n

Here are some symptoms that warrant a call to an ISA Certified Arborist<\/a> for a professional assessment.<\/p>\n

An obscured root collar or fungal growth on or near the roots<\/h3>\n

Most trees don’t, and shouldn’t, grow straight out of the ground like telephone poles. They have a distinct, visible flare where the stem (trunk) joins the root system. It’s a concern if this flare is covered by soil or mulch. When this happens, disease, girdling roots and insect infestations are more likely to occur. If this condition persists and disorders develop, the interruption of water flow from the roots to the branches will lead to the crown\u2019s decline. With this in mind, ensuring this critical region is visible and free of disorders is important. Excavation of the buried root collar is a priority.<\/p>\n

Additionally, watch for mushrooms or fungal growths on or near the base of the tree. Their presence can indicate wood decay and root disease.<\/p>\n

\"visible
Trees should have a visible flare with the trunk widens at the base and the roots begin to spread outward.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Oozing or bleeding on stems and branches<\/h3>\n

Wet spots on branches and stems and sunken areas can be a symptom of an unhealthy tree. Such issues indicate sap flow from wounds stemming from insect borers, disease pathogens or environmental disorders. Over time, bacteria and other organisms may colonize this sap, resulting in a discolored flux that may have a sour odor.<\/p>\n

Cracks or splits on the trunk or bark<\/h3>\n

Physical wounds or cracks can result from weather such as sunscald or frost cracks and winter injuries.<\/a> Lawn equipment or construction equipment can also damage trees. Depending on the damage and cause, an assessment can help determine if remedial action is necessary.<\/p>\n

\"crack
A crack or wound may be a symptom of a potentially unhealthy tree.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Delayed budbreak in spring<\/h3>\n

Trees initiate new growth in spring depending on species, weather conditions and the health of the plant. If a plant seemed later than usual breaking bud and if the resulting new growth appears sparser than normal, this could indicate a root or vascular disorder. On the other hand, delayed bud break is typical for newly planted trees.<\/p>\n

Sparse canopy<\/h3>\n

When the upper branches of a tree begin to die this is often a sign of an underlying health issue. It is sometimes called canopy dieback<\/a>. Dead or dying branches in the canopy indicate stress or disease.<\/p>\n

Yellowing, discolored or wilting foliage<\/h3>\n

Yellowing and loss of leaves on the interior portions of the crown may be a symptom of water stress. That means too little or too much soil moisture. In some cases, it may be an early indication of a root or soil disorder that is inhibiting water uptake. Generally, any unusual discoloration, wilting or curling of the foliage can be a sign of an unhealthy tree. Keep an eye out for dark spots, yellowing or a brown or scorched appearance on the leaves.<\/p>\n

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