Tree bark acts as a protective barrier around the internal wood. Therefore, it can be a bit concerning if you notice several pieces of bark flaking off the trunk. What exactly causes peeling tree bark, and what can you do about it?
Franklin Tree Service has the answer. We’ll help you identify the signs of tree bark damage and the underlying issues that may be causing it. If this is a problem impacting your vegetation, don’t hesitate to contact us for professional tree services in Thompson’s Station, TN.
1. Weather-Related Stress
Trees under extreme stress may start to shed their bark. In some cases, Mother Nature is the driving force. You might notice pieces of bark breaking away from the trunk due to the following:
- Drought
- Frost damage
- High heat or sunscald
Keep an eye on your vegetation during dry periods and when temperature patterns change. If you notice any peeling bark, it could be a natural response to these environmental stressors.
2. Tree Diseases
Say you notice a tree shedding some of its bark. Shortly after, the foliage becomes wilted, several branches die, and fungi start growing around the trunk. All of these signs indicate a diseased tree.
Don’t delay contacting an arborist if you suspect your tree has some type of disease or fungal infection. Depending on the extent of the damage, experts may be able to control the problem and preserve the tree’s health.
However, if you wait too long and the decay is too widespread, they might not be able to save the tree.
3. Pest Infestations
Not only do environmental factors and disease cause tree bark to peel, but pest infestations can, too. Ants, termites, beetles, and more could affect the tree’s nutrient supply, causing the bark to become brittle and flake off.
4. Local Wildlife
In addition to insects, woodpeckers often compromise trees by drilling holes into the wood. They may, in fact, be searching for the insects already infesting those trees. Deer are also known to cause bark damage by rubbing their antlers against tree trunks.
5. Natural Growth
If you ask an arborist why your tree’s bark is peeling and what it means, they may tell you it’s no cause for concern. Some tree species, like birch, pine, and sycamore, naturally shed some of their bark as they grow. For peace of mind, you may want to schedule a tree health assessment.
Contact Our Team When Your Tree’s Health Suffers
While peeling bark could be a normal part of a tree’s growth pattern, it may also indicate a bigger health problem. Don’t hesitate to call an arborist when shedding bark is coupled with leaf discoloration, branch dieback, fungal growth, and other signs of decay.
Franklin Tree Service proudly serves Thompson’s Station and the surrounding areas. Our experts are happy to help when you notice any changes in your tree’s health or appearance. Give us a call at (615) 866-7056 to book a service.