If you’re like most people, you probably don’t give much thought to the bark on your trees. But if you start to notice that it’s starting to peel and flake off, there may be a problem. In this blog post, we will discuss the causes of peeling tree bark.
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Chlorosis
Chlorosis is a common tree ailment that manifests as yellowing leaves. Chlorosis occurs when a tree is unable to produce sufficient chlorophyll, causing the leaves to turn yellow or white.
While chlorosis can be caused by a number of factors, including nutrient deficiencies and pests, one of the most common causes is iron deficiency. When trees are unable to access enough iron, they are unable to produce chlorophyll, resulting in the telltale signs of chlorosis. While iron deficiency is often to blame, it is important to note that there are a variety of other potential causes of chlorosis.
As such, it is always best to consult with a professional before taking any action. Regardless of the cause, chlorosis can be detrimental to the health of a tree and should be addressed as soon as possible.
Pests Or Diseases
Many trees, such as birch and sycamore, naturally shed their bark in thin sheets or strips. However, shedding can also be a sign of stress caused by pests or diseases. For example, borers are insects that lay their eggs under the bark of a tree. The larvae then tunnel through the bark, causing it to peel away from the trunk. Borers can be difficult to control once they’ve infested a tree, so it’s important to take preventive measures, such as using insecticide around the base of the trunk.
Peeling bark can also be caused by fungi that invade the tree through wounds in the bark. These fungi release enzymes that break down the cells of the bark, causing it to separate from the trunk. Treatment for fungal infections typically involves applying fungicide to the affected area. In some cases, tree bark can also peel due to extreme weather conditions, such as prolonged drought or severe cold snaps.
If you notice that your tree’s bark is peeling, be sure to consult with a certified arborist to determine the cause and find the best course of treatment.
Environment
If you’ve ever noticed that the bark on a tree is peeling, it’s not because the tree is sick. In fact, peeling bark is a perfectly natural process that helps trees to survive in harsh environments. When the temperatures start to drop in the winter, tree bark protects the inner layers of the trunk from freezing.
However, if the temperature suddenly rises, the bark can start to peel away. This protects the tree from getting sunburned or sustaining other damage from extreme heat. Peeling bark is also a way for trees to get rid of pests or diseases. If the tree is infested with insects, the peeling bark will help to remove them. Likewise, if the tree has a fungal infection, peeling off the infected bark will help to stop the spread of the disease. So next time you see a tree with peeling bark, don’t worry – it’s just nature taking its course.
Sunscald
Sunscald occurs when the bark is exposed to harsh sunlight, causing the cells to overproduce moisture. This excessive moisture then evaporates, leaving the cells dehydrated and damaged. Over time, this can cause the bark to peel away from the tree trunk.
In addition to being unsightly, sunscald can also make trees more susceptible to disease and insect infestation. To help prevent sunscald, trees should be planted in locations that offer some protection from direct sunlight.
Additionally, trees should be regularly pruned to remove any dead or damaged branches that could allow sun exposure. By taking these precautions, you can help keep your trees healthy and free from sunscald.