• slide
  • slide
  • slide
  • slide
  • slide
  • slide
  • slide
  • slide

Tree Problems

Cracks in tree trunks, stunted leaf growth and thin canopies are all signs your tree is struggling. Diagnosing the cause of the symptoms is the first step in improving your tree’s health.

Several factors can cause bark on trees to crack and peel. Trees planted too deep and pruned with flush cuts are more subject to frost crack and sunscald. 

Girdling roots can also result in stunted growth and dieback on trees.  These circling roots place pressure on the expanding trunk and stop the flow of water and nutrients between the roots and leaves. It is usually a flattened trunk, decline or other above ground symptom that indicates there is a problem below ground.

Physical injury to the trunk or improper pruning can also result in poor wound closure.  Proper care is about the only option at this point.   Make sure the tree is properly watered and mulched to reduce further stress. 

A bit more information: Consider contacting a certified arborist when these types of problems arise.  These tree care professionals inspect the tree, evaluate its condition and recommend possible treatment options, including the removal of a hazardous tree. Visit www.treesaregood.com for a list of certified arborists in your area. 

Upcoming
Events & Webinars

April 23, 2026
Iowa State University
More information

April 25, 2026
Pasquesi Home & Gardens
Lake Bluff, IL

April 26, 2026
Ebert's Greenhouse Village
Ixonia, WI

May 2, 2026
Ebert's Greenhouse Village
Ixonia, WI

May 6, 2026
FREE WEBINAR: 
Adding Native Plants
to Any Size Gardening Space

Register here

May 7, 2026
Wauwatosa Public Library
Wauwatosa, WI
Register here

May 9, 2026
Ebert's Greenhouse Village
Ixonia, WI

May 10, 2026
Ebert's Greenhouse Village
Ixonia, WI

May 13, 2026
Roots & Branches
West Bend, WI
Register here

May 16, 2026
Ebert's Greenhouse Village
Ixonia, WI

May 17, 2026
Ebert's Greenhouse Village
Ixonia, WI

May 20, 2026
Herb Container Workshop
Pewaukee, WI
Register here

May 21, 2026
FREE WEBINAR: 
Planting & Care of Your Rain Garden
Register here

June 3, 2026
FREE WEBINAR: 
Managing Your Landscape
with Pollinators in Mind

Register here

June 10, 2026
Enjoy Life Active Aging Symposium
Brookfield, WI
More information

July 9, 2026
Ebert's 50th Anniversary Celebration
Ixonia, WI

August 6-16, 2026
Wisconsin State Fair
We Energies Energy Park, West Allis, WI

Sept. 3, 2026
FREE WEBINAR: 
Tree Planting and Care
Register here

Sept. 12, 2026
Knowledge in Bloom Conference
Milwaukee, WI
Register here

Sept. 17, 2026
FREE WEBINAR:
Fall Landscape Care and Planting

Register here

WATCH ON-DEMAND WEBINARS

MORE UPCOMING EVENT DETAILS 

Book an Appearance

Learn More

Sign up for Melinda's free  e-newsletter for a chance to win a Birds & Blooms' Ultimate Gardening Guide!

ENTER NOW