Highlands, NC headlines

A peer-reviewed study on hemlock woolly adelgid in the Southern Appalachians found that extensive hemlock mortality has already occurred throughout our region, altering forests and streamside ecosystems. If you have eastern or Carolina hemlocks on your property, a fall inspection can help identify infestations early and determine whether treatment is recommended.

When there is a hanging branch or crack in a tree, it’s easy to see that a problem exists. Other issues may be more difficult to detect. Simple solutions can make a big difference. Pruning can lessen branch weight and wind resistance. Cables and brace rods can also be effective in helping to limit branch movement and protect trees.

Fertilization is the single most important proactive measure you can take in caring for your trees this season. Soil care and fertilization in autumn dramatically improve growing conditions and provide the nutrients required for vital tree root development.

Leaf scorch, wilting, and early leaf drop are among the first signs of drought stress. NC State Extension notes that high temperatures and dry soils limit a tree's ability to move water and nutrients. These symptoms are common during hot Western North Carolina summers.

Trees under stress display key symptoms indicating a serious problem may exist. This includes wilting or loss of leaves/needles, yellowing of leaves or browning of needles, premature autumn color, early leaf drop and sappy spots on branches. Correctly identifying the underlying cause is critical to addressing tree health issues.

Summer is a time of high activity for pests as well as tree diseases caused by fungi and other organisms. Some problems may be simply aesthetic, while others can be a real threat to tree health and vitality. As such, it is important to have an arborist check your trees to determine the underlying cause.

Given the stress from higher temperatures and lack of rainfall comon in summer, it is critical to water your trees and shrubs thoroughly. Applying a 3-4" layer of mulch, inspecting for pest infestations and scheduling fall fertilization can also help maintain tree health and vigor.

Given the stress from higher temperatures and lack of rainfall comon in summer, it is critical to water your trees and shrubs thoroughly. Applying a 3-4" layer of mulch, inspecting for pest infestations and scheduling fall fertilization can also help maintain tree health and vigor.

Foliar diseases including anthracnose, apple scab, rust diseases and powdery mildew will be commonplace in our area this spring. These diseases result in unsightly discoloration, lesions or spots on leaves. Taking action now, before the disease can progress, provides the most effective control.

In spring, damaging tree borers such as ambrosia beetles will start feeding inside tree roots and branches or tunneling beneath the bark. These pests cause signficant internal damage. Taking action in spring is the best way to prevent a major infestation.

After winter ends, your trees and shrubs will be working hard to establish spring growth. A soil test in early spring can help determine the precise nutrients needed for that growth, yielding a fuller canopy and vibrant, health foliage.