How to Evaluate Tree Health

Trees add value to property, beautify landscapes and provide cooling shade from summer sun and insulation from winter wind. They also save energy by reducing soil moisture loss and protect soil and water from extreme summer and winter temperatures. Trees also contribute to human health by lowering stress, improving cognition and increasing longevity, according to a growing body of research.

However, despite their many positive impacts on our lives, trees are often neglected. Many of the problems affecting trees are preventable with proper maintenance and monitoring. Learning to evaluate tree health can help homeowners and communities identify defects that are a serious risk and require action before they cause damage or failure.

An effective health assessment begins by walking completely around the base of a tree and examining the roots, trunk and branches for abnormalities. The first step is assessing the final soil elevation of the root flare (Figure 1). A healthy tree has a clearly defined flare where the structural roots radiate away from the trunk and are held in place by the surrounding soil. A flare that is buried under too much soil will make it more difficult for the roots to access nutrients and moisture, which may cause rot.

Next, look for large swaths of missing bark. A small swath of missing bark on the side of a branch or trunk is not usually a problem, but if the defect covers 25 to 40 percent of the circumference of the tree this indicates a moderate risk for failure in the area of the damage.

Another important check is for the presence of decay fungi and other decay symptoms, which are often indicated by mushrooms on the trunk. A tree requires at least one-third of its circumference in sound wood to support itself and decay fungi can rapidly weaken the wood, putting the structure at risk for failure.

A third important indicator is the degree to which a tree has been defoliated by insects. Early defoliation, such as that caused by gypsy moth and forest tent caterpillar, significantly reduces tree vigor because the succulent leaves or needles serve as a sink for stored carbohydrates and nutrients. However, defoliation that occurs later in the season, such as by fall webworm and orange-striped oakworm, has less impact on a tree’s vigor because these pests feed on mature foliage.

If you are concerned about the health of your trees or would like a professional opinion, contact the team at Tree Health, an ISA Certified Arborists with a deep understanding of tree care technique and environmental consciousness. Contact them online for a free evaluation or call them at 631-234-7770.

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