As a locally owned and trusted tree care company in Fort Worth, NEON Monkey Tree Services wants to help you catch the early signs of tree disease and know exactly what to do next. Here’s what to look for and how we can help.
Common Signs a Tree Might Be Diseased
If you’re not sure what to look for, you’re not alone. Many tree diseases start subtly, and by the time they’re obvious, the damage may already be severe. Here are some of the most common red flags:
Discolored or Spotted Leaves
Leaves that turn yellow or brown out of season, have dark spots, or appear scorched around the edges are often signs of a fungal or bacterial infection. Leaf discoloration is usually one of the first signs something’s wrong.
Dead or Dying Branches
If you notice brittle branches or ones with no leaves during the growing season, your tree may be struggling. Dead limbs can also break off easily, becoming a hazard—especially in storms.
Unusual Growths or Fungi
Mushrooms growing at the base of a tree or odd bumps on the trunk can be signs of internal rot. Some fungal infections are slow-moving but deadly. Don’t ignore any strange growths or mold-like substances.
Bark Issues: Cracks, Peeling, or Holes
Healthy bark should be relatively smooth and intact. If it’s peeling off in strips, cracking, or riddled with small holes, insects or disease could be taking hold beneath the surface.
Leaning Trunk or Exposed Roots
A tree that suddenly leans or has large exposed roots might be dealing with root rot or structural instability. This is often a sign the tree is no longer anchored securely and may fall.
Increased Pest Activity
Boring insects like beetles or termites are drawn to weakened trees. You might see sawdust near the base, small exit holes, or even hear a hollow sound when tapping the trunk.
Why Diseased Trees Are Dangerous
It’s tempting to wait and see if the tree improves on its own—but in most cases, tree diseases won’t go away without professional care.
Safety Risks
A weakened tree can drop large limbs or collapse entirely. In North Texas, high winds and storms only increase the danger. Diseased trees are a common cause of emergency removals after weather events.
Spreading Disease
Diseases and pests can spread quickly from one tree to another, especially if they’re the same species or located closely together. Treating one tree could save several.
Property Damage and Curb Appeal
Dead or sick trees can reduce your home’s value and make your yard look neglected. Worse, falling branches can damage roofs, vehicles, or fences—costing far more than proactive care.
What to Do If You Think Your Tree Is Sick
If you suspect something’s wrong with your tree, don’t wait. Early intervention is the key to saving the tree and avoiding more serious problems.
Call a Certified Arborist
The first step is getting a proper diagnosis. NEON Monkey’s certified arborists know how to spot disease, assess structural integrity, and recommend a treatment plan that fits your specific tree and landscape.
Explore Treatment Options
Not every diseased tree needs to come down. In many cases, strategic trimming, deep root fertilization, or pest control can restore tree health. For advanced infections, we’ll guide you through next steps—whether that’s treatment or safe removal.
Don’t Try DIY Tree Care
Trimming or treating diseased trees without the right tools and knowledge can be dangerous and make the problem worse. Professional tree care is safer, faster, and more effective.
How NEON Monkey Tree Services Can Help
We understand that dealing with a sick tree can be stressful. That’s why NEON Monkey offers friendly, expert service from a team of certified arborists who know the Fort Worth area inside and out.
Our Services Include:
- Tree health evaluations
- Disease and pest treatment
- Professional tree trimming
- Safe tree removal and stump grinding
- Emergency storm response
We’re local, licensed, and committed to keeping Fort Worth’s trees safe and thriving. If something doesn’t look right in your yard, we’re happy to take a look and give you a clear, honest assessment—no pressure.