Common Tree Diseases in the East Bay

Fog, humidity, and wetness can adversely impact the way trees grow, and the Bay Area has all of those elements. Trees are not only prone to weather patterns, but damage can also be caused by pollution and human activity. One of the best things to do to help protect your trees is to regularly look them over.  If you know how to spot the symptoms of tree diseases, you’ll be able to do something about it early on. This article reviews some common tree diseases and East Bay tree care.

 #1: Sooty Mold

This condition is characterized by a black coating on bark and leaves, the presence of aphids, and yellow, curling leaves. Trees are usually affected by this disease during the summer and spring seasons.

The main problem in having trees with sooty mold is that they attract pests, specifically aphids. If the infestation is not quickly taken care of, it will spread to your other trees in a short amount of time.

While this disease probably won’t kill your trees,  it does change their appearance. Mold growth and yellow, curling leaves is definitely a cosmetic issue, but it’s more dangerous for younger trees because it blocks light from reaching their leaves.  So, it’s best to seek East Bay tree care services if you find this mold in your yard.

#2: Coryneum Blight

You can tell a tree is affected by this disease if you see small holes on the leaves, yellowing stems, and browning around the holes. This particular disease targets trees belonging to the family Prunus, which includes almond and stone fruit trees.

Coryneum blight is a fungal disease caused primarily by warm, wet weather. The adverse effects of the disease are worsened by pollutants. It’s dangerous to your trees because it damages leaf tissue. It’s a major problem in the fruit industry.

#3: Fire Blight

If you notice blossoms turning brown, or leaves and stems with a scorched look to them, your trees are probably experiencing fire blight.

The fire blight is a contagious bacterial disease that usually attacks trees during the early spring. Affected trees look burnt, taking 1 to 2 weeks for the full effect to happen.

Even worse, the spreading of the disease is hastened by birds, bees, insects, wind, and rain. Fortunately, fire blight doesn’t affect many types of trees, commonly targeting pear and apple trees.

East Bay Tree Care for Your Home

While some tree diseases are generally harmless, it’s still best to have them inspected and cared for by a professional. If you need East Bay tree care services, our team of certified arborists is here to help. Contact Sexy Trees at (925) 233-6877. We love to hear from you.