Diseases that effect trees

Georgia is home to a lot of beautiful types of trees. Unfortunately, that also means that there are a few different nasty diseases and bugs that can affect the health of the trees as well. In this post, we will look at what some of these might be. 
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Seiridium Canker
The first sign of this disease is that the leaves wither and die. As the disease spreads, the twigs start to die off as well. You will usually be able to tell that this disease is present because the bark may take on a reddish or darker hue. 
It is important to get this dealt with as soon as possible because the infection can spread to other trees through contact with branches, rain or irrigation systems. 
If caught early enough, a good pruning should help to stamp out the problem. When the disease is advanced, the best choice is usually to remove the tree completely.

Hypoxylon Canker
Again you will notice this first in the leaves of the tree. They will start to yellow and wilt. As the disease spreads, it creates fungal mats to form under the tree’s bark. Eventually, these mats push the bark of the tree off. 
You can confirm the diagnosis by looking at one of the areas where the fungal mat is exposed. It has quite a hard surface and can range in color from a silvery gray to a tan. If you cut into the mat, it is black inside. 
This disease can get a foothold when a tree is under stress. So keep your trees in good condition by having them trimmed regularly and ensuring that they have enough water and nutrients. 

Armillaria Root Rot
This one is difficult to pick up at first because the symptoms start off with slower growth of the tree. The crown starts to die back, and leaves might drop prematurely as the disease progresses. The only outward sign that may become obvious is that it may produce mushrooms at the base of the tree.
If those are not present, the only real way to check for the disease in the earlier stages is to check the roots or to remove some of the bark. If you do this, you should see clear indications of the fungus between the tree and its bark. This is typically white in color and easy to see. 
This is most common in trees that are stressed but can also be common when the soil does not drain properly or is not able to dry out properly between watering. 
If you suspect that your tree is diseased, it is best to call in a pro to come in and check it for you. Getting them in early enough increases the chances of them being able to save the tree, rather than having to execute tree removal.

They will be able to advise you on measures to combat the problem and able to assist you when the only option is the removal of the tree itself.