What is Wrong with My Tree?

Insects and diseases pose two of the most serious threats to a tree's health. In addition to insects and diseases, many abiotic factors can negatively affect trees.

Insects and diseases pose two of the most serious threats to your tree's health. As soon as you notice any abnormality in your tree's appearance, you must begin a careful analysis to gain an understanding of the problem. By examining the specific symptoms of damage and understanding their causes, you can make a reasonable diagnosis of the problem and select the proper treatment. If you are uncertain about the disease, or do not know how to treat it, contact your local CSFS district to conduct a homesite assessment of the trees on your property.

Colorado's Common Insects and Diseases

Insects and diseases are a critical issue regarding the declining health of Colorado's pine and aspen forests. A few of the more common insects and diseases that affect these forests are the mountain pine beetle, the ips beetle, dwarf mistletoe, various aspen ailments, the spruce bark beetle and the western spruce budworm.

Learn more about Colorado's common forest insects & diseases

Abiotic Factors that Affect Trees

Hail Damage

Hail can be very damaging to trees by ripping through leaves, defoliating branches, wounding bark and knocking off twigs altogether. Such damage leaves the trees more susceptible to disease, and makes it easy for pathogens to invade.

Frost and Winter Exposure Damage

Frost during growing season can be detrimental to newly formed leaves and stems, which are not yet acclimated to cold. Tissue will appear water soaked and will quickly become brown and shriveled.