The trees on your property can add both beauty and value. However, when a tree becomes distressed by diseases, pests, or structural weakness, it can appear unsightly and risk its health. Additionally, some conditions can spread to other trees and bushes, so it’s vital to have an ISA-certified arborist conduct a tree health assessment and provide recommendations for needed treatments. Our Tri-Cities area ISA-certified arborists at Promier Tree share on the blog today five things a tree assessment should include so you know what to expect and better understand the arborist’s findings.
1. Roots
Depending on your tree’s health status, different conditions can require varying root inspection levels. For example, a tree with suspected root damage or root rot may demand a more involved process called air excavation to examine the tree roots. However, our Kingsport tree care experts explain that we can gather enough knowledge to determine underground root health by studying the above-ground roots and the tree’s environment.
2. Trunk
A tree’s trunk can highlight problems that are a clue to its health. For example, a leaning trunk could mean your tree is structurally unstable and made needs cabling or bracing to prevent accidental personal or property damage. On the other hand, wounds or defects, like a rotting canker, may cause structural instability and affect tree growth. In some cases, our Bristol ISA-certified arborists may recommend removing a tree if it suffers extensive damage to the trunk.
3. Bark
After examining the tree’s roots and trunk, our Johnson City ISA-certified arborists will look closer at the tree bark. Inspecting the tree bark can reveal trauma, such as fungal growth that can spread throughout the tree if left untreated. Therefore, we may recommend pruning infected branches or removing the tree, depending on the damage.
4. Branches
The size, number, direction, and shape of tree branches determine the balance and overall appearance of the crown. Unfortunately, an unbalanced crown can cause branch and trunk damage, especially during a storm with high winds. Therefore, our ISA-certified arborists in the Tri-Cities area will look for branches that are growing too close to a roof or other property, rubbing against one another, competing for light, or are dead. For best tree health and growth results, pruning may be necessary.
5. Leaves
Tree leaves and needles may show the first signs that your tree is in distress. Discoloration, early shedding, or dying leaves could indicate that your tree has a problem such as pests, diseases, or a lack of vital nutrients. Therefore, when our Kingsport ISA-certified arborists conduct a tree assessment, the leaves and needles can help diagnose problems and lead us to the best treatment.
ISA-Certified arborists in Kingsport, Johnson City, and Bristol, Tennessee
Your trees can have a long lifespan and continue to build value for your property. However, to ensure the health of your trees, it’s important to receive a tree assessment. Our ISA-certified arborists in Johnson City will examine your trees for health concerns and offer effective ways to address or treat those problems to prevent total tree loss. If you have one or more trees on your property that may need professional intervention, please call Promier Tree at (423) 765-2626 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.