What Is Root Rot? Why It Can Lead To Tree Removal

Are your trees and shrubs looking stunted, wilted and discolored? These unhealthy signs could all be caused by root rot. Learn how to spot the signs of rot, how to prevent it and why you may need professional tree removal services. At Martin’s Tree Service, we offer reliable tree removal Kitchener, ON, to help you deal with root rot and other issues.

What Is Root Rot?

Root rot, just like it sounds, causes the roots of your trees to literally rot away. There are a few types of root rot and different causes, so it’s important to have a professional assist you in accurately diagnosing the disease. Here are the most common signs that your tree or garden plant has this troublesome disease:

• Wilted plants
• Stunted growth
• Cankers on trees
• Reddish or black sap oozing from trees
• Vertical, dark streaks
• Brown, soft roots

It’s important to discuss your concerns with a professional arborist. Some of these symptoms could be caused by other tree diseases. Rot can quickly spread from one tree or shrub to another, so stop the problem before it becomes more serious.

What Causes It?

This disease is caused by fungus. Whether you’re dealing with Laetiporus, Inonotus, Phytophthora or other types of fungi, the results are pretty much the same. Most root rot is caused by either wet, poorly draining soil or sandy soil with a low seasonal water table.

Some root rot fungi identify itself with mushroom growth near the base of a tree. Other fungi stay beneath the surface and are difficult to spot. Thankfully, there are ways to prevent this from completely killing your tree and ruining your yard or garden.

What Can I Do To Prevent It?

The most common cause of this disease is wet soil, so a common way to prevent it is to keep your soil relatively dry. Look for ways to reduce the standing water around your trees, and don’t overwater bushes or garden plants.

Earthworms are another great way to hold back the growth of rot. A healthy population of earthworms is a good sign of root health.

Many agricultural extensions offer fungicides to remove the fungi that cause root rot. Unfortunately, these chemical solutions can be hazardous, expensive and only a short-term solution. If you spot rot at the first signs, this may save your tree or plants, but otherwise, it may be too little, too late.

Your last resort is removal. Pulling out a garden plant, shrub or tree is a safe way to contain the spread and prevent damage to your home. A tree with root rot is dangerous to everyone nearby and can fall with little warning. Removing a tree from your property is a very dangerous task, so it’s best to work with a professional team experienced with this service.

While any tree removal service can take down a tree, a skilled arborist can identify disease and offer ways to prevent it from spreading. Work with a professional who can diagnose this disease instead of just guessing at the problem with your unhealthy tree.

Learn More About Tree Care and Safe Removal

At Martin’s Tree Service, we have over 10 years of experience safely caring for trees. Our professional team offers tree removal services in Kitchener, ON, and the surrounding area. Removing a tree with root rot requires surgical precision, and we have the tools and expertise necessary.

Contact us today to learn more about root rot, prevention strategies and safe tree removal services. Don’t wait until your trees become dangerously weak, but work with a professional arborist to determine the best way to keep your property safe and your trees healthy for years to come.