Bark peeling off trees isn’t always a sign of poor health. However, if you’re seeing massive chunks of missing tree bark, you’re right to feel concerned. Scheduling premier tree services in Peachtree City, GA, from experts like Boss Tree Service can address this problem, but it’s best to move quickly.
Here are a few possible causes for your tree losing bark, as well as some pointers on when to seek professional guidance to save your plants.
The Primary Reasons That Tree Bark Peels
The outer layer of bark peeling off trees can leave the plant looking unsightly. Yet, they may still be healthy.
Once you understand the anatomy of the tree, take a closer look. Do you see a fresh layer of new tissues covering the wood behind the peels? The tree might be going through a natural process, in which case, the material loss isn’t harming it.
Plants like the following lose their old, dead outer layers as they grow new tissues:
- Paperback maples
- Silver maples
- Redbuds
- London plane trees
- Scots pines
On the other hand, seeing bare wood beneath those peels could indicate one or more of the following tree health issues:
1. Infections and Disease
Certain tree diseases can impact your tree’s inner and outer tissues, resulting in significant bark loss. Fungal infections like Botryosphaeria and Hypoxylon canker cause peeling tissues. Look for a grayish or whitish discoloration.
2. Sunscald Damage
Is your plant losing its outer layer in the winter? Sunscald could be the reason if one or two unseasonably warm winter afternoons have triggered the tree to exit its dormancy and grow fresh tissues. When temperatures dropped later that night, those newly formed tissues died, creating unsightly markings.
3. Environmental Stress
Certain environmental conditions could trigger tree bark cracking and peeling. For instance, water stress could occur with too much or not enough hydration. Watering your trees deeply and infrequently can help them retain enough moisture and grow deeper root networks while escaping oversaturation.
4. Pest Infestations
Although it’s normal to see insects on plants, some species bore into the wood to eat, lay eggs, or make nests. The most damaging insect infestations include:
- Clearwing months
- Bark beetles
- Borers
The constant chewing and tunneling damages the plants’ inner and outer tissues, eventually causing them to shed.
How To Care For Trees With Missing Outer Tissues
Paying attention to your plants goes a long way. Inspect the trees regularly for signs of disease, infestation, or environmental damage. Leaf discoloration, droopy foliage, and missing bark indicate the need for professional help from an experienced tree care service.
Get Fast Help for Your Trees’ Bark-Shedding Problem
Whether there’s bark peeling off trees due to a nutrient deficiency or a spreading fungal infection, Boss Tree Service can deliver an effective solution in Peachtree City, Georgia. Our experts have over 40 years of combined experience, so expect comprehensive solutions that include everything from stump grinding to emergency tree services.
Learn summer tree care and maintenance tips for plant health, or call us for tree care. Request your free estimate from Boss Tree Service today at 770-251-8000!