If your tree has a fungal infection, you may notice dead twigs and branches, dying leaves, or even an obvious fungal growth on the leaves' surface (such as in the case of powdery mildew). You may be able to detect a problem yourself or you may need a tree expert to diagnose it, but either way, your tree experts can help treat the issue.

Here's what your tree service can do to treat a fungal infection whether it manifests in the leaves, trunk, or roots.

Fungal Problems on the Leaves

If your tree's leaves show visible mold-like growth, you likely have a fungus problem. In some cases, the precipitating factor could be a nearby infected plant, which may need to be either treated or removed. However, that won't halt a powdery mildew problem on your tree, so tree care experts will also need to give the tree either a systemic or a topical antifungal treatment.

Topical antifungals may include conventional chemicals such as copper-powered antifungal products, or organic treatments such as Neem oil.

Your tree service should also evaluate whether the tree may need some pruning at this juncture. Thinning out some suckers or excess leafy twigs can make remaining leaves more accessible for treatment and can increase airflow to reduce the stagnant conditions that fungal infections love.

Fungal Infections in Bark or Branches

In some situations, a tree may develop fungal problems in the bark or in the wood of a branch. Depending on the type of infection, your tree care company may be able to help by removing the infected portion of the tree. This can keep the fungal infection from spreading.

In order for this to work, you'll need to catch the infection early enough. Catching conditions before they spread is one reason why regularly scheduled tree care services are a must.

Fungal Issues With the Roots

Trees can develop fungal issues below ground (often known as root rot) for a variety of reasons. For instance, a prolonged wet spell could encourage fungal growth in the soil. Tree care services may be able to help by moving the tree to a drier spot or treating it with an antifungal product.

Before you decide to treat your tree for a fungal condition, be sure to ask your tree experts what the prognosis is. If your tree is suffering from root rot, for example, some cases may be treatable, whereas others are so serious that the outlook isn't good. If the tree is so badly damaged that it's unlikely to survive with treatment, removing it now may be the best option.

If you have a tree that you suspect may have a fungal infection or other issue, get in touch with your local tree care company today to discuss treatment, pruning, or removal options.