Top Signs of Tree Disease and How to Treat Them

Abundant Tree Care Services • January 13, 2025
Looking up at a tree with lots of green leaves against a blue sky.

Trees are a vital part of our southern Illinois landscape, offering shade, beauty, and environmental benefits. However, tree diseases can jeopardize their health and pose risks to your property. Recognizing the early signs of tree disease and addressing them promptly is key to preserving your trees and landscape. Here are some common indicators of tree disease and how Abundant Tree Care Services can help.


Discolored or Wilting Leaves

If you notice leaves turning yellow, brown, or black out of season, your tree may be battling a fungal or bacterial infection. Wilting leaves that drop prematurely are another red flag. Diseases such as anthracnose or leaf spot are common in our region and thrive in humid conditions. Regular tree inspections and targeted treatments can help halt the spread of these diseases.


Dead or Dying Branches

Dead branches, especially in the crown, may indicate canker diseases or root rot. Not only do these branches weaken the tree, but they also increase the risk of property damage. Professional pruning and disease management can save the tree and eliminate safety hazards.


Fungal Growth or Mushrooms

Mushrooms growing near the base of a tree often point to root rot or internal decay. These diseases can weaken the tree’s structural integrity, making it prone to falling. Our team can assess the extent of the damage and recommend solutions such as root zone aeration or, in severe cases, tree removal.


Cracks or Cankers on the Trunk

Open wounds, splits, or sunken areas (cankers) on the trunk may result from bacterial or fungal infections. Left untreated, these cankers can spread and compromise the tree’s health. Proper wound care and disease-resistant treatments are essential to stop further damage.


Treating Tree Diseases in Southern Illinois

Abundant Tree Care Services specializes in diagnosing and treating tree diseases to protect your landscape. Our certified arborists in De Soto, IL use proven techniques to restore tree health. If you suspect a tree on your property is diseased, give our local tree care company a call at 618-227-2881 to request a tree health inspection in southern Illinois. Together, we can keep your trees healthy!

Why is it best to have a professional arborist prune my trees?

By Abundant Tree Care Services • July 19, 2025
Tree pruning is a vital part of maintaining a healthy and attractive landscape. While it may be tempting to grab some tools and try to do it yourself, improper pruning can do more harm than good. That’s where a professional arborist comes in. Arborists are trained and certified in the care of trees and understand the best practices for pruning to promote both safety and tree health. At Abundant Tree Care Services, our local arborists provide expert tree pruning in the greater De Soto, IL area. Here are four benefits of hiring a professional arborist for pruning services. Improved Tree Health One of the most important reasons to prune a tree is to remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches. A professional arborist can identify these problem areas and make precise cuts that prevent decay from spreading to healthy parts of the tree. Pruning also increases air circulation and light penetration, which helps reduce the risk of disease and supports vigorous growth. A properly pruned tree is healthier and better equipped to withstand pests, storms, and other stressors. Enhanced Safety Around Your Property Overgrown or unstable branches can pose serious risks to your home, vehicles, or people on your property. Weak limbs may break off during storms or high winds, causing damage or injury. A professional arborist knows how to spot potential hazards and will remove risky branches before they become a problem. By keeping trees structurally sound and balanced, you help create a safer outdoor environment for your family and visitors. Better Tree Shape and Appearance Pruning isn’t just about removing problem branches—it’s also about shaping the tree for a more attractive and balanced appearance. Arborists are skilled in techniques that enhance the natural form of each species, improving curb appeal and adding beauty to your landscape. Proper shaping also prevents trees from becoming overgrown and maintains symmetry that contributes to a well-maintained yard. Protection for Nearby Structures and Utilities Trees that grow too close to roofs, fences, or power lines can cause problems if not properly managed. Branches rubbing against buildings can lead to structural damage, and limbs near power lines can be dangerous. An arborist can safely trim trees in tight spaces without harming surrounding property. Their expertise ensures that your trees grow in a way that complements your home rather than threatens it. Professional Tree Pruning in De Soto, IL For expert arborist services in De Soto , Carbondale, and Southern Illinois, contact Abundant Tree Care Services at  618-227-2881  . Feel free to give us a call to request an estimate!

4 Signs that a Tree Is Threatening Your Home & You Should Call the Arborist

By Abundant Tree Care Services • June 19, 2025
When big trees are compromised, they can pose serious threats to your safety and your home’s structure. While some warning signs are obvious, others may be subtle until it’s too late. Being able to recognize the indications of a hazardous tree can help you take preventive action before damage occurs. At Abundant Tree Care Services , our local arborists can identify and safely remove hazardous trees. Here are four signs that a tree may be creating a safety risk for your home. Leaning Toward Structures A tree that leans dramatically toward your house, garage, or other structure may be unstable. While not all leaning trees are dangerous, a sudden change in posture or a lean that continues to worsen can indicate root failure or structural weakness. If a tree is leaning more than usual following a storm or heavy rain, it's especially important to have it evaluated by an arborist right away. Cracks in the Trunk or Major Limbs Visible cracks in a tree’s trunk or large branches may indicate that it is splitting internally. These structural defects can lead to sudden failure, especially during strong winds. Cracks can also provide a pathway for pests and rot to weaken the tree further. Even if the cracks seem minor, they could signal serious underlying issues that compromise the tree’s stability. Dead or Hanging Branches Large dead limbs are a common safety concern, especially when located over rooftops, driveways, or walkways. Dead branches are brittle and prone to falling without warning, posing a risk to people and property below. If you notice multiple dead or hanging limbs, the tree may be under stress or declining in health, which can increase the risk of branch failure. Roots Uplifting or Exposed Roots play a vital role in anchoring a tree securely to the ground. If you observe roots lifting out of the soil or find that the soil around the base is disturbed, it could mean the tree is shifting. Exposed or damaged roots are often a result of erosion or construction, and can lead to the tree becoming unstable and toppling in high winds. Tree Removal in De Soto, IL For expert arborist services in De Soto , Carbondale, and Southern Illinois, contact Abundant Tree Care Services at  618-227-2881  . Feel free to give us a call to request an estimate !