1. Dutch Elm Disease
This fungal disease emerged in Canada in the 1940’s and had a devastating effect on native elm trees. It spreads through elm bark beetles and causes leaves to yellow, wilt, and die. It is still prevalent today and so disease-resistant cultivars are your best investment.
Prevention: Regular pruning of dead branches, avoiding transporting infected wood, and calling professionals for treatment if signs appear.
2. Pine Beetle Infestation
While technically a pest problem, pine beetles introduce a fungus that disrupts a tree’s ability to absorb nutrients, leading to decline and death. In the 90’s these beetles wiped out over 18 million hectares of prime BC forests. Although we have seen less of these beetles since 2004 we should still be vigilant.
Prevention: Keep your trees healthy with proper watering and fertilization, when you notice a lot of dead needles or the beetle remove the infested trees, and treat trees with insecticides when necessary.
3. Anthracnose
Affects maple, oak, and ash trees, causing leaf spots, curling, and early leaf drop.
Prevention: Raking and removing fallen leaves, improving air circulation through proper pruning, and avoiding overhead watering to prevent fungal spread.
4. Root Rot
This fungal infection attacks trees growing in poorly drained soil, causing decay and instability.
Prevention: Ensuring proper soil drainage, avoiding overwatering, and removing infected trees to prevent the spread.
5. Fire Blight
Common in apple and pear trees, this bacterial disease turns branches black and causes leaves to wilt.
Prevention: Pruning infected branches during dry conditions, disinfecting pruning tools, and planting resistant tree varieties.
Call for Your Free Estimate Today!
At Pine Valley Tree Services, we specialize in tree disease diagnosis, prevention, and removal to keep your trees healthy year-round. If you suspect a disease is affecting your trees, contact us today for expert tree care services in Kamloops, Kelowna, Vernon, Salmon Arm, and the Shuswap region.