Tree Health Checklist

TREE HEALTH CHECKLIST

How do you know if the trees around you are healthy? As the weather cools and leaves start to change, it can be a great time to monitor the health of the trees in your area and our Heartland Tree Alliance experts have made a helpful checklist.

• Knowing your tree species will inform you on what is normal for your tree and can help narrow down which pests and diseases it is susceptible to.

• Is the canopy growth even with healthy looking foliage?
• Are there any signs of insect damage?
• Have any leaves begun to change color early?

• Are there any broken or hanging limbs?
• Are there any signs of fungus or decay?
• Are there any narrow angles of attachment?
• Are there any rubbing branches?

• Are there any cracks or cavities?
• Do you see any oozing wounds?
• Are there areas of missing bark?
• Do you see any mushrooms, fungal growths, or signs of decay?
• Do you see any frass (insect excrement) or wood shavings?

• Are there any wounds or signs of damage, especially from weed whips or mowers?
• Are there any open cavities?
• Do you see any mushrooms or signs of decay?

• Is there 2 to 4 inches of mulch surrounding the tree?
• Is the mulch applied correctly (a donut, not a volcano)?
• Is the soil dry and cracking?
• Is the soil too moist?

If you notice any signs of concern, call an arborist who is certified by the International Society of Arboriculture or the Kansas Arborist Association, or reach out to your local Missouri or Kansas extension office.