Like in other places, St. Louis has its fair share of tree issues, either caused by fluctuating weather, pests or diseases. Here a few common tree issues you will find in St. Louis.
Gall Wasps
Wasps can prove to be a major pest for trees. Some chemicals that they produce can interfere with consistent tree growth. Gall wasps can particularly be troublesome. About 70% of these wasps live in oak trees. They are notable for triggering the growth of galls, abnormal swellings of plant tissue caused by bacteria and fungi, among other things. Leaf galls on oak trees aren’t as troublesome, but twig or branch galls can kill an already infested tree. These gall wasps can not only be found in St. Louis but range from Southern Ontario in Canada down to Georgia.
Oak Wilt
This type of disease is a killer for oak trees. Oak wilt is caused by a fungus invasion in mature trees and is mainly spread thanks to beetles. It is regarded as one of the most aggressive tree diseases around and proves lethal for oak trees. It’s mostly detected during warmer months. Should your oak tree have wilted or water-soaked leaves that are infected, or turn brown, defoliation will likely be needed.
Emerald Ash Borer
This wood-boring brand of beetle has killed millions of ash trees across the United States. First discovered in 2002, this invasive insect lays larvae within an ash tree trunk and limbs. They feed on the tree’s inner bark and disrupt nutrient and water flow towards its crown, leaving D-shaped exit holes of four to five millimeters across the bark. This can cause discoloration and a loss of foliage, as well as prevent new branches from growing.
Dutch Elm Disease
This type of disease affects American elms and is a bit of a methodical worker. It will start by taking residence on branches before working its way through the tree. It usually takes a few years before you see the full extent of the damage.
Hypoxylon Canker Disease
This type of fungus attacks already damaged sapwood. It tends to make its move after a drought, insect infestation, when a tree is denied nutrients or if that tree must compete with others to secure nutrients. This disease is mainly found in shade trees and gives you added reason to employ preventative measures if your tree has already been damaged.
Gypsy Moth
These types of moths were created by accident, but it has caused irrevocable damage to millions of trees nationwide. They lay egg masses on trees, causing patches and leaving holes in leaves. Gypsy moths also trigger defoliation in more serious cases.
Heart Rot Disease
This type of disease acts like a fungus that spreads through the bark of a tree, causing decay. Heart rot can destroy tree structurally, triggering breakage. Look for any rotting spots or white fungus when inspecting your tree trunks. It’s hard to spot, but if you do, you need to attack the issue immediately.
Should any of these issues affect your tree, call Jackson Tree Service right away so we can properly assess and determine what action needs to be taken to save it from extinction. From removal to pruning, Jackson Tree Service will ensure you receive high-quality service to keep your tree healthy. Contact us today!