If you notice a seemingly healthy tree in your yard shedding its bark, you may wonder, “Why is the bark falling off my tree?”
Tree bark shedding may indicate underlying health issues, environmental stress, or a normal part of the growth process. In this post, Green Acres Tree Service draws on its experience in offering expert tree services in Moultrie, GA, to explain why your tree could be shedding its bark.
Some Trees Shed Bark Naturally
For certain tree species, bark exfoliation is a normal part of a healthy process where they replace the outer bark with fresh layers underneath. If you look closely, you’ll see that the underlying wood is unscathed and your tree continues to grow normally.
The tree bark may fall off dramatically or in a patchy fashion, but you shouldn’t worry if your tree looks healthy. Common trees that shed their bark naturally include:
- Sycamore
- Birch
- Redbud
- Silver maple
- Hickory trees
- Pine trees
Damage From Frost or Extreme Heat
Prolonged subjection to high temperatures can cause the bark of your oak tree to fall off. This often happens if your tree isn’t getting sufficient water.
Frost damage can also cause your tree’s bark to contract and eventually peel off. You can protect your tree from such environmental stress by monitoring the weather conditions and taking preventative measures, including:
- Watering properly during hot seasons
- Minimizing stress on your trees
Sign of Disease or Insect Infestation
Ask any experienced arborist in Moultrie, Georgia, “Why is the bark falling off my tree?” and they’ll likely say it’s one of the tree health warning signs.
A disease or pest can weaken your tree, causing it to shed its bark. For example, if you notice bark peeling on your ash tree, it may indicate infestation by the emerald ash borer.
Common tree diseases that cause the bark to shrink, die, and peel away include cankers and fungal infections.
Your Tree Has Physical Injury or Mechanical Damage
If your tree has suffered an impact from a vehicle, lawn equipment, or an animal, it can cause localized sloughing. The wound will typically heal in a few weeks.
Sometimes, the wound can create an avenue for insects and pathogens to infect your tree, causing a more serious problem. If the wound covers a large section of the trunk, it can hamper the performance of your tree’s vascular system.
For this reason, you should call a professional to evaluate your tree immediately you notice such wounds. You don’t want the problem to worsen and kill your tree.
Get Professional Help For Tree Bark Shedding
Why is the bark falling off my tree? This can happen for numerous reasons. For some tree species, it’s a normal growth process. For others, it often indicates a health issue, stress, or physical damage.
It’s advisable to schedule a professional evaluation by Green Acres Tree Service, the go-to arborist in Moultrie, GA, if your tree is shedding its bark.
Call us today at (229) 881-2538 to book a free estimate or to learn more about dead vs. dormant tree signs.
