Tree diseases are more common than people realise. Some develop slowly over time. Others can spread quickly if not dealt with. In serious cases, they can weaken a tree to the point of collapse putting buildings, people and nearby trees at risk.
Below, we’ll look at some of the most common tree diseases affecting trees in Leicester and explain how proper tree maintenance can help you prevent long-term damage.
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Tree Problems Commonly Found in Leicester
Ash Dieback
Ash dieback is caused by a fungus that spreads through the air. It affects both young and mature ash trees and is now widespread throughout the UK. In many areas of Leicestershire, including suburban streets and woodlands, it’s become a serious concern.
What to look for:
- Dieback of branches, often from the top down
- Dark, sunken lesions on stems
- Early leaf fall
- Sparse, thinning crowns
There’s no treatment for ash dieback. Trees that become structurally unsafe should be removed by a qualified tree surgeon. In less severe cases, ongoing monitoring and limited pruning may help extend the tree’s lifespan.
Honey Fungus
This root-based fungus spreads underground, attacking trees and shrubs through their roots. It can go unnoticed until it causes visible decline. It’s one of the most damaging garden fungi in the UK.
Common signs:
- Honey-coloured mushrooms around the base of the tree (usually autumn)
- White fungal growth under the bark
- Dead branches or sections dying back without warning
- Cracking or loose bark
There’s no chemical control for honey fungus. Good management involves removing infected stumps, improving drainage and avoiding planting vulnerable species nearby. Early detection during routine inspections is key.
Bacterial Canker
Typically found on cherry, plum and other stone fruit trees, bacterial canker is most active in spring and autumn. Wet weather and incorrect pruning can make it worse.
Watch for:
- Oozing gum from branches or trunk
- Small sunken patches on bark
- Dieback of new shoots and buds
- Leaf spotting or premature fall
Affected branches should be cut back to healthy wood in dry conditions. Tools must be cleaned between cuts to stop it spreading.
Powdery Mildew
A common problem on young or closely spaced trees, powdery mildew is most active in warm, dry weather. It looks unsightly and can weaken growth if left untreated.
You might see:
- White powder on leaves or buds
- Distorted or curled young shoots
- Slower growth
- Leaves turning yellow or dropping early
Improve airflow around affected trees by pruning back dense growth. Remove affected leaves and avoid watering foliage directly.
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot isn’t one single disease but a group of fungal issues that cause patches or blotches on leaves. It can affect maples, horse chestnuts, sycamores and many ornamental species.
Signs include:
- Small brown or black spots on leaves
- Yellowing between spots
- Leaves falling earlier than normal
- Uneven thinning in the canopy
Though rarely fatal, repeated infections can stress the tree. Removing fallen leaves in autumn helps prevent it returning the following year.
Why Tree Maintenance Is the Best Prevention
By the time many diseases are obvious, the tree is already under strain. Preventative tree maintenance reduces the chance of infection and keeps trees strong enough to resist stress caused by weather, pests or poor growing conditions.
Here’s how regular maintenance helps:
1. Routine Inspection
Spotting changes in a tree’s bark, leaves or growth pattern early on makes it easier to take the right action. Small problems can be dealt with before they become safety risks.
2. Correct Pruning
Removing weak, crossing or damaged branches keeps the tree’s structure healthy and helps prevent decay or infection setting in. Pruning also improves light and airflow through the canopy.
3. Good Soil and Root Care
Soil compaction, poor drainage and damage to roots are often missed but play a big part in a tree’s health. Healthy roots mean better growth and stronger resistance to disease.
4. Professional Oversight
Qualified tree surgeons can identify what’s normal and what isn’t. They’re also trained to work safely at height and can assess if a tree is safe to keep or needs removing.
Know When to Act
Some diseases can be managed with pruning or better site care. Others, especially those that compromise stability, require removal ideally before they cause damage.
You should always get a professional opinion if:
- A tree is leaning or has shifted after strong winds
- Bark is peeling, cracking or falling away
- Fungal growth appears around the base or trunk
- Leaves are dropping early or not appearing in spring
- There’s visible dieback in the crown
Even trees that seem healthy can have problems that need attention. That’s why consistent maintenance matters, it gives you confidence that your trees are safe and in good condition.
Professional Advice Backed by Experience
Tree problems don’t always show themselves clearly and when they do, it’s not always obvious what the next step should be. That’s where the right expertise makes a real difference. Working with someone who knows what to look for and how to deal with it properly, saves time, money and future hassle.
Woods Tree Care provides straightforward, practical support to homeowners, landlords and businesses across Leicester. Whether it’s a tree that’s showing signs of disease or you just want peace of mind before the next storm season, we offer clear guidance and dependable service you can trust.
Keep Your Trees Strong, Safe and Disease-Free
Trees are long-term features of any property but they don’t look after themselves. Ignoring early signs of disease can lead to costly damage or even safety risks, especially in high-traffic areas.
With regular tree maintenance, you protect not just your trees but the space around them too.
Call Woods Tree Care on 0116 239 5185 or email [email protected] to arrange an inspection or request a free quote.
Whether you need help with a single tree or a long-term maintenance plan, we’re here to help you get it right.
