How to Spot Tree Disease Before It Spreads

WM Tree Services • May 20, 2025
A close up of a tree trunk with a hole in it.

Trees add shade, beauty, and value to your property, but like any living thing, they can get sick. And in Westchester and Putnam Counties, where seasons bring plenty of moisture and changing temperatures, tree diseases are more common than you might think. The good news? If you catch the warning signs early, you might be able to save your tree before the damage spreads. We explain the top signs of tree disease to look out for. When your trees need a health diagnosis or disease management in Westchester or Putnam County, contact WM Tree Services.


Discolored or Spotty Leaves

One of the most obvious red flags is unusual leaf color or spotting. If you see yellow, brown, or black spots, or leaves turning colors way before fall, your tree could be battling a fungal infection like anthracnose or tar spot. These conditions can weaken the tree over time if not treated.


Early Leaf Drop or Thinning Canopy

If your tree starts shedding leaves in early summer or its canopy looks sparse, that’s a sign of stress. Disease, root issues, or pest infestation might be at play. Compare your tree to others of the same species; if it’s lagging, something’s off.


Cankers, Cracks, or Oozing Sap

Cankers (sunken, dead areas on the bark) or cracks can indicate disease or internal decay. Oozing sap or a sticky residue on the trunk may point to infections or infestations. Sometimes these are accompanied by a foul smell, which is another sign your tree’s not doing well.


Fungi or Mushrooms at the Base

Fungal growth around the roots or trunk base is a telltale sign of internal rot. While not all mushrooms are a death sentence, their presence usually means it’s time to call in a professional arborist for an assessment.


Tree Health Diagnostics in Westchester and Putnam Counties

Trees can’t tell you when they’re sick, but they do show signs of distress. If you’ve noticed yellowing leaves, dead branches, or unusual growth patterns, our arborists can perform a detailed health assessment to identify the issue. Using industry-leading techniques, we diagnose nutrient deficiencies, root problems, and structural weaknesses, providing a customized plan to restore tree vitality. Call WM Tree Services at 914-257-7225 to get a diagnosis and treatment for your trees today.

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Why is it Important to Work with a Licensed Arborist for Tree Care?

By WM Tree Services • April 3, 2025
Trees are a valuable part of any property, providing beauty, shade, and environmental benefits. However, maintaining their health and safety as they grow often requires expert care, especially in urban environments. That’s where a licensed arborist comes in. At WM Tree Service, our certified arborists specialize in tree health, safety, and maintenance, ensuring that your trees receive the professional attention they need to thrive. What is a Licensed Arborist? An arborist is a tree care expert trained in the science of planting, maintaining, and diagnosing trees. Arborists have specialized knowledge of tree biology, pest and disease management, and proper pruning techniques. As a licensed arborist, we have met industry standards for safety and expertise, ensuring we can provide high-quality care while minimizing risks to your trees and property. When Do You Need an Arborist? There are many situations where calling a licensed arborist is the best choice for your trees: Tree Health Concerns If you notice yellowing leaves, dead branches, or unusual growth patterns, an arborist can diagnose the issue and recommend treatment. Tree Pruning & Maintenance Proper pruning promotes healthy growth, prevents disease, and reduces the risk of falling limbs. An arborist knows how to trim trees safely and effectively. Storm Damage & Emergency Tree Services After a storm, damaged or fallen trees can pose a danger. A licensed arborist can assess the situation and safely remove hazardous trees. Pest & Disease Control Trees are vulnerable to pests and diseases that can spread quickly. An arborist can identify and treat infestations before they cause serious harm. Tree Planting & Transplanting Choosing the right tree for your landscape and ensuring it’s planted correctly sets it up for long-term success. An arborist can help you select and plant trees that will thrive. Tree Removal Taking down a tree, especially a tall or hazardous one, requires precious techniques that can only be learned through training and experience. At WM Tree Service, we are committed to providing expert tree care in Westchester and Putnam Counties. Our licensed arborists have the skills and experience to keep your trees healthy, safe, and beautiful. Please give our Hudson Valley tree care team a call at  914-257-7225  to schedule an assessment and learn how we can help maintain your cherished trees.