Common Causes of Tree Death

Causes of Tree Death

Since the age of the creation trees have played crucial role to enrich the weather eventually the climate of the mother earth. In pre-historic time trees were the foundation of animal diversity. With the pressure of ever-growing population, urbanization and industrialization it has been a challenge to our silent companions to survive. Many reasons; both man made and natural ones are there that causes death to tree. Even though trees have longer life span in general but as a living creature just like any other living being they have illness, diseases and unavoidable deaths. Afterall What lives must die. Still there is some notable reasons that accelerates a trees death,

Deforestation

One of the most glaring threats to trees is deforestation. Large-scale clearing of forests for agriculture, logging, and urban development destroys ecosystems, disrupts biodiversity, and contributes to climate change. The loss of trees on such a massive scale is a serious concern as it impacts not only the trees themselves but the countless species that depend on them.

Climate Change

Global climate change poses a significant risk to trees. Altered temperature patterns, extreme weather events, and shifting precipitation levels can stress trees and make them more susceptible to pests and diseases. The changing climate may also disrupt the natural habitats of certain tree species, leading to declines in population and even local extinctions.

Trimming or Over-Pruning

Over pruning or over trimming is one of the most common causes of tree death. Recall that even large, hardy trees can experience shock, lose limbs and leaves, and other negative consequences from over-trimming.

Mistaken Fertilization

Almost any organism suffers when it receives the incorrect kind or quantity of nutrients, and trees are no different. It's advisable to conduct study before fertilizing a tree or to get professionals to handle it for you because improper fertilizer application, overfertilization, or underventilation can all damage the plant.

Root Impairment

Given that the roots are the primary source of nourishment, stability, and growth for a tree, it stands to reason that injury to the roots may eventually result in the death of the tree. When a tree's roots are cut, for example, when you dig next to it and cut through the roots with a shovel—or when they are chemically harmed by fertiliser, pesticides, or pollutants in the surrounding environment, root damage can result. When gardening around your tree, be sure to leave enough room around the base for the roots to spread out and keep an eye out for any exposed or shallow roots. This will help to maintain the health and vitality of your tree's roots.

Insects and Infections

Several tree species are vulnerable to pests and illnesses. Particularly dangerous beetles are those that eat through tree trunks and bark, as they can completely destroy several trees on your property. Diseases can also be quite destructive, particularly if you have several trees of the same kind on your land. The symptoms of insect infestation on your tree include cracking bark, small mounds of sawdust-like material surrounding the tree, holes in the bark or branches, and a fading canopy. Your tree might be afflicted with a disease if it appears to be having trouble producing leaves, has limbs that are obviously straining, or has discolored foliage. 

Invasive Species

The introduction of non-native plants, insects, and diseases can have devastating effects on local tree species. Invasive species often outcompete native vegetation, introduce new diseases, and create imbalances in ecosystems. The American chestnut, for example, was once a dominant tree species in the eastern United States but has been decimated by the introduction of the chestnut blight, a disease caused by an invasive fungus.

Soil Compaction

Human activities such as construction and heavy machinery use can lead to soil compaction around tree roots. Compacted soil reduces the amount of air and water that reaches the roots, hindering the tree's growth and nutrient absorption. Over time, this stress weakens the tree and makes it susceptible to diseases and pests.

Life has an end. But as you and me need caring, assistances to live better and healthier life so the trees are. Regular supervision, professional approach is highly needed for a prolonged life. A tree is helping you and me to breath so their is certainly a pact between Mankind and Trees that declares the undeniable duties we have, towards guardian angels from the same mother; the mother Earth.