Trees play a vital role in Louisiana’s landscapes, providing shade, beauty, and environmental benefits. However, due to the state's humid climate and frequent storms, trees can be vulnerable to disease, decay, and structural instability. Regular tree health assessments by professionals help maintain their longevity and safety. In this guide, we explore the importance of tree health assessments and how they benefit homeowners and property managers.

1. Oak Wilt

• Symptoms: Wilting leaves, brown veins, rapid leaf loss.
• Causes: Fungus spread by beetles and root grafts.
• Treatment:
  • Remove infected branches and avoid pruning in spring.
  • Use fungicide treatments on high-value trees.
  • Prevent root grafts between infected and healthy trees.

2. Powdery Mildew

• Symptoms: White or gray powdery coating on leaves.
• Causes: High humidity and poor air circulation.
• Treatment:
  • Improve air circulation by pruning dense branches.
  • Apply fungicides if the infection is severe.
  • Avoid overhead watering to keep foliage dry.

3. Root Rot (Phytophthora and Armillaria)

• Symptoms: Yellowing leaves, wilting, mushy roots.
• Causes: Excess moisture and poor drainage.
• Treatment:
  • Improve soil drainage and avoid overwatering.
  • Remove and replace severely infected trees.
  • Apply fungicide to protect nearby healthy trees.

4. Anthracnose

• Symptoms: Dark brown or black spots on leaves, twig dieback.
• Causes: Fungal spores spread by wet conditions.
• Treatment:
  • Rake and dispose of infected leaves.
  • Prune affected branches to promote air circulation.
  • Apply copper-based fungicides if necessary.

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5. Bacterial Leaf Scorch

• Symptoms: Leaf edges turn brown while veins remain green.
• Causes: Bacteria spread by insects like leafhoppers.
• Treatment:
  • Improve tree health with deep watering and fertilization.
  • Use insect control methods to reduce disease spread.
  • No cure, but proper care can prolong tree life.

​Before Hurricane Season

• Ensuring trees are structurally sound before severe weather can prevent storm-related damage.

Signs of Disease or Decay

• If you notice discolored leaves, peeling bark, or dead branches, it’s time for an assessment.

Post-Storm Evaluations

• Storms can weaken trees in ways that aren't immediately visible. A professional evaluation helps identify hidden damage.

Routine Annual Checkups

• Regular health assessments ensure trees remain strong and vibrant year-round.

Expert Knowledge

• Certified arborists understand Louisiana’s tree species, soil conditions, and climate challenges.

Proper Equipment & Techniques

• Professionals use advanced tools to diagnose tree health and perform necessary treatments safely.

Long-Term Cost Savings

• Preventative care and early intervention reduce the need for expensive tree removals and property repairs.

Who to Call For a Tree Health Check?
Regular tree health assessments are essential for maintaining a safe, beautiful, and thriving landscape. By identifying risks early and taking preventative measures, property owners can protect their trees and surrounding environment. If you need a professional tree health evaluation, contact Big Bark Tree Care today to ensure your trees remain strong and healthy for years to come.

​Hurricanes are a common threat in Baton Rouge, bringing strong winds and heavy rains that can severely damage trees and landscapes. Proactive tree care before storm season can minimize risks, protect your property, and reduce cleanup costs. In this guide, we’ll cover how to assess and prepare your trees for hurricane season to keep your landscape safe and resilient.

Before a storm hits, it’s important to evaluate the condition of your trees to identify potential hazards.
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Look for Weak or Dead Branches

• Weak, dead, or broken branches are more likely to break off during high winds.
• Regularly inspect your trees and remove unstable limbs to reduce potential damage.

Check for Structural Defects

• Trees with multiple trunks or weak branch unions are more susceptible to splitting.
• Leaning trees may indicate root damage or instability and should be assessed by a professional.

Inspect for Disease or Decay

• Trees affected by rot, fungus, or insect infestations are more likely to fall during storms.
• Addressing disease and pest issues before hurricane season strengthens tree resilience.

Routine tree maintenance is key to reducing storm-related damage.
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Regular Pruning

• Trimming trees properly can reduce wind resistance and prevent overgrowth.
• Removing excess branches ensures trees are less likely to break under high winds.

Deep Root Watering & Mulching

• Strong roots help trees stay anchored during storms.
• Applying mulch around tree bases improves soil moisture and root stability.

Bracing and Cabling

• Weak trunks and heavy branches can benefit from structural support.
• Professional bracing and cabling can reinforce vulnerable trees, reducing breakage risk.

Some tree species are better equipped to withstand hurricanes than others.

​Best Wind-Resistant Tree Species

• Live Oak – Strong, deep-rooted, and highly wind-resistant.
• Bald Cypress – Flexible, flood-tolerant, and resilient in storm conditions.
• Southern Magnolia – Dense wood and strong structure make it more durable.

Avoid Trees Prone to Storm Damage

• Water Oaks – Weak wood and shallow roots make them highly susceptible to storm damage.
• Pines – Tall and brittle, prone to snapping in strong winds.
• Shallow-Rooted Species – Trees with weak root systems can easily topple over in storms.

Spacing and Placement Strategies

• Avoid planting trees too close to power lines, structures, or driveways.
• Space trees properly to allow for strong root development and wind flow resistance.

Once the storm has passed, evaluating tree damage is crucial for safety and recovery.

Assess Tree Damage

• Look for hanging branches, split trunks, and exposed roots.
• Trees leaning significantly may pose a risk and need immediate attention.

Remove Hazardous Trees Safely

• If a tree is at risk of falling, consult a professional for safe removal.
• Avoid handling large fallen limbs or uprooted trees on your own.

Tree Recovery Tips

• Proper watering, mulching, and pruning can help stressed trees recover.
• Monitor tree health for signs of delayed damage in the weeks following the storm.

Get Prepared For Storm Season
Preparing your trees before hurricane season can protect your landscape and property from severe damage. Regular inspections, proper maintenance, and choosing storm-resistant tree species can make a significant difference. If you need assistance with tree preparation or post-storm care, contact a professional tree service to ensure your trees remain strong and resilient year-round.