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Understanding Dieback in Trees

  • Writer: George Hempel
    George Hempel
  • Jul 10, 2024
  • 3 min read

words by George Hempel @The Tree Surgeon Professionals



Understanding Dieback in Trees


Dieback in trees is a condition that signifies a gradual decline in the health of the tree, often resulting in the death of branches starting from the tips. This can be due to various stress factors such as pests, environmental conditions, or mechanical damage. Here, we’ll discuss dieback what it is, what to look for, and how to address it, helping you understanding dieback in trees.

What is Dieback?

Dieback refers to the gradual death of tree branches, starting at the tips and moving inward. It's a sign that the tree is under significant stress, leading to a decline in its health and vitality. This condition can be caused by various factors, including pests, diseases, environmental stress, or mechanical damage.

Recognising Dieback: The Stages

1. Initial Stress Signs:

•   Appearance: The tree may appear wilted and off-colour. The leaves may lose their glossy appearance, looking dull and tired.

•   Leaf Drop: You may notice some leaf drop without significant dieback in the branches.

•   Thinning Canopy: The canopy may begin to thin out, indicating the tree is under stress.

•   Remedy: At this stage, a good watering with a product like Seasol can help if the tree isn’t suffering from overwatering. Seasol helps boost the tree’s health, akin to giving a child a balanced diet of peas, broccoli, and carrots.

2. Progression to Strain:

•   Increased Dieback: More tips will die back, and the leaves will die from the outside in.

•   Canopy Changes: The once dense canopy will now allow more sunlight to pass through, indicating a significant leaf drop, possibly between 25% to 40%.

•   Kino Production: The tree may produce more kino (a type of sap) as it tries to defend itself against the stressors.

 

3. Serious Intervention Needed:

At this stage, it's crucial to identify the cause, whether it’s an external pathogen, climatic conditions, or environmental factors. Mechanical damage can also be a cause, but poisoning is unlikely due to the slow progression.

Treating Dieback

One effective remedy involves using a combination of Seasol and molasses. Seasol provides essential nutrients, while molasses offers a quick sugar boost, much like giving jelly to a patient in the hospital. This combination can help the tree sustain its energy levels and improve its overall health.

Application: Depending on the severity, apply Seasol and molasses once a fortnight or once a month. This treatment should be monitored to gauge effectiveness.

Monitoring Tree Health

To track the tree’s progress, take regular photos from a consistent location. This helps create a reference point to observe changes over time. Look for signs of new epiclemic growth, which indicates recovery. If the tree continues to decline, it may eventually be unable to photosynthesise enough sugar to sustain itself, leading to its death.

When to Call a Professional

Early intervention is crucial in managing dieback. If you notice any signs of stress in your tree, consult a tree surgeon before the condition worsens. A professional can diagnose the issue accurately and recommend appropriate treatments.

Dieback in trees is a serious condition that signifies underlying stress factors. By recognising the signs early and taking appropriate measures, such as using Seasol and molasses, you can help your tree recover and thrive. Regular monitoring and professional advice are essential in managing tree health effectively. If you suspect your tree is suffering from dieback, don’t hesitate to seek expert assistance to ensure its survival and longevity.


Sam doing tree surgery





 
 
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