Question
Sick tree?
Hello. Thank you in advance for your time.
I have a tree in front of my house (I'm afraid I don't even know what type) but I'm wondering why there are missing leaves from certain branches. I'm worried that it either might be infested by something or diseased.
Would you kindly help me identify what the problem might be and even suggest any solutions? I've attached some pictures of the tree below.
Thanks again.
AnswerDear Karen, I sure don't like the looks of this. I think the tree might be an oak, but some disease, breakage, or insect has consumed the top side of this tree, and that part probably won't grow back. You can try to prune out the bad part, spray the tree with perhaps a NEEM spray that controls insects, mites, and diseases, fertilize it, and watch over it for a few years and it may become less noticeable, but you will still have a lopsided tree. At this stage, the tree is young enough, that if it were me, I would probably cut the tree down and dig it out and replant a prettier tree with a better shape. Now if this tree were on the side of your house or in the back, then it wouldn't be so noticeable and I would probably keep the tree. But the unfortunate reality of it is that this tree has sustained a major injury and will probably not grow into the beautiful tree that your house deserves. You should cut out the dead areas of the tree, see if that leaves you with a shape that can be evened up, and if not, I would replace the tree. Remember, good landscaping increases your property value! Good luck, Melissa
