Disorders (Abiotic)

Chlorosis

A tree that chronically has off-color, pale, or yellow leaves is described as chlorotic. This is often caused when a specific nutrient is deficient or unavailable. See fertilization...

Water Stress

Periods of a prolonged drought or excessive moisture can create water stess. The symptoms include wilting in the top of the crown and can lead to a decline in health. Learn how to help your trees recover from water/drought stress.

Herbicide Damage (drift)

Symptoms vary depending on the type and concentration of herbicide. Symptoms include brown, curled, or distorted foliage, especially on the margins of leaves.

Salt Damage

The accumulation of de-icing salt in the soil and on foliage can kill new growth. Clusters of thin shoots result in an appearance called a "witch's broom."

Animal Damage

Rabbits, squirrels and deer commonly feed on the bark of certain species for nutrition in the winter.

Winter Damage

Lack of snow and abnormal temperatures can often cause winter injury in conifers. Browning and loss of needles are common symptoms.

Included Bark

Technically a structural disorder that can lead to stem failure. Structural pruning can help reduce this chance of failure.