If you’ve noticed bark beginning to peel off a tree on your Aurora property, it’s important to take a closer look. Peeling tree bark can happen for a range of reasons. Some indicate a worrisome problem, while others are simply a sign of the tree’s normal growth patterns.
Understanding why your tree bark is peeling is the first step in determining a solution. If you’re still unsure what’s causing this problem after reading below, don’t hesitate to schedule tree care services in Aurora, CO.
1. The Tree Is Responding to Weather and Environmental Patterns
The weather can impact a tree’s growth patterns, survival mechanisms, and overall health. For example, when temperatures fluctuate rapidly, trees can experience sunscald, which causes the bark tissue to die. Frost cracks can also affect the bark, primarily when the temperature drops quickly into the freezing range.
If Aurora has recently been experiencing fluctuating temperatures or weather patterns, this may be why your tree bark has begun cracking or peeling.
2. The Tree Is Suffering From Fungal Disease or Rot
Fungal diseases can also cause bark to begin peeling. For example, cytospora canker is a fungal disease that attacks and kills tree bark, creating “cankers” in the bark. Over time, the fungus can girdle entire branches by cutting off their nutrient flow, causing branch loss and damage.
If you suspect fungal disease is causing your peeling tree bark, keep an eye out for warning signs such as leaf discoloration, premature leaf drop, or dead branches. This problem often requires professional intervention to resolve.
3. The Soil Does Not Have Proper Moisture Levels
Tree bark can also begin peeling when the soil moisture levels are off. Overwatering your tree can lead to root rot and fungal infections, while underwatering can cause the tree to enter drought. The bark can crack due to lack of moisture, and the tree will begin closing its leaf pores to retain moisture, reducing photosynthesis.
To determine the proper watering schedule for your tree, feel the soil. It should feel moist, but not soggy, a few inches down. If the soil feels dry and crumbly, this is a sign the tree needs more water.
4. The Bark Loss Is Due to Normal Growth Patterns
In some cases, bark loss occurs simply because the tree is growing. Some species naturally shed their bark as they grow. Examples include:
- Sycamore
- River birch
- Silver maple
- Redbud
- Crape myrtle
- Eucalyptus
- Shagbark hickory
If your tree is one of these species and you don’t see other signs of tree bark disease or stress, you may not have cause for concern.
Schedule a Tree Health Inspection With Bear Creek Tree Service
Identifying the causes of damaged bark on trees can be challenging if you don’t have much knowledge about tree health. If you’re concerned that the peeling tree bark is worsening, it may be worth consulting a professional tree service for help.
Bear Creek Tree Service can come to your residence, assess the problem, and implement solutions to protect your tree and property. Call 720-299-1409 to request a free quote.