While property owners expect to see their trees shed leaves with the seasons, sudden bark shedding is concerning. Shedding along the trunk occurs for various reasons, and it is essential to understand the possible causes to act quickly at the first sign of trouble. When facing sudden tree bark shedding, it’s best to contact professional tree services in Johns Creek, GA, and schedule an expert inspection.
Arborists can most efficiently diagnose and treat these issues when identified in their early stages.
Possible Causes of Bark Loss
For some species, such as sycamores and silver maples, peeling is a natural process, like snakes shedding their skin. If healthy bark is visible under the peeling layer, there is likely nothing to worry about.
However, tree health issues can cause sudden shedding and demand urgent attention. The most common ones that lead to shedding include:
Fungal Infections
Fungal infections are common among many tree species. Some of the most frequently seen fungal diseases are Armillaria root rot, Cytospora canker, and anthracnose. If an infection is the culprit behind sudden peeling, there will typically be other signs of distress, such as cankers (sunken areas), leaf changes, and twig loss.
Property owners must deal with these diseases quickly to prevent their spread to nearby trees and protect the health of the infected specimen. Always dispose of diseased bark away from other plants to avoid contamination.
Antifungal treatments may help, but removal may be the healthiest and safest option if the plant is severely affected. An arborist should inspect the situation to determine whether removal is necessary.
Environmental Stress
Environmental factors such as temperature can cause tree health issues and lead to bark loss. Severe frosts or excessive heat can strip tree trunks, though the loss may exclusively appear toward the frost or sun exposure. For example, shedding limited to the south or southwest side of the trunk is likely due to frost.
Using shade cloths or frost coverings can protect smaller, more vulnerable trees from extreme temperature fluctuations. It is also vital to regularly water trees ahead of these fluctuations to lessen stress on the root systems.
Pests and Insects
Common insects such as bark beetles bore into the trunk and limbs and disrupt the plant’s nutrient flow, weakening the outer layers of bark and causing them to shed. Other pests may claw or scratch at the trunk to access insects below the outer layer, which leads to peeling.
Consult ArborForce Tree Services
Johns Creek, GA, residents can assist property owners with every aspect of tree care. Hiring a professional tree care company is the best way to quickly diagnose and treat sudden bark loss and other issues. Property owners can rely on ArborForce Tree Services for everything from seasonal pruning to emergency removal of diseased specimens.
Don’t delay seeking a professional inspection for unexplained bark issues, as early intervention can determine the tree’s outcome.
Request an estimate online or call 470-319-6625 for reliable service today.