Trees are more than just beautiful additions to your landscape — they are essential for providing shade, improving air quality, and increasing property value. However, like any living organism, trees can experience stress, disease, and decline. Recognizing the early warning signs of tree health issues is crucial to preventing larger problems down the road.
At LCS Lawn & Tree Service, our certified tree care specialists help homeowners protect and the health of their trees across Wisconsin and Minnesota. Here’s what you need to know to keep your landscape thriving.

Why Tree Health Matters
Maintaining healthy trees isn’t just about curb appeal — it’s about safety, property value, and environmental impact. Healthy trees are stronger, more resilient against storms and disease, and contribute significantly to the overall beauty and functionality of your outdoor spaces.
We recommend scheduling a tree health inspection at least once a year to catch problems early before they become serious or costly.

Common Signs Your Trees May Need Attention
Here are some of the most common warning signs to watch for:

1. Discolored or Wilting Leaves
   If you notice leaves turning yellow, brown, or red out of season, or if leaves are wilting unexpectedly, it could signal underlying issues. Nutrient deficiencies, pest infestations, fungal infections, or root damage might be the cause. Early diagnosis and treatment can often restore the tree’s vitality.
2. Dead or Falling Branches
   A healthy tree will naturally shed small twigs, but frequent falling branches or large dead limbs are serious red flags. Deadwood can not only compromise the tree’s structure but also pose a safety hazard. Professional pruning and evaluation are essential to prevent property damage or injury. If you encounter a large fallen branch, avoid removing it yourself. Trees under stress may be unstable — always call a professional arborist.
3. Cracks in the Trunk or Bark Abnormalities
   Visible cracks, splits, peeling bark, or wounds on the trunk can expose a tree to infections and pests. These openings often serve as an entry point for diseases. If you notice unusual bark texture, deep splits, or oozing sap, it’s time to schedule a tree health inspection.
   According to the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), deep trunk wounds can significantly
   weaken a tree’s structural integrity.
4. Fungal Growth Around the Base
   Mushrooms or fungal conks growing near the base or on the trunk usually indicate internal decay. While fungi play an important role in nature, when they appear on your trees, they often signal compromised structural strength.
5. Slow or Stunted Growth
   If your tree seems to be growing slower than usual, or if new leaves and shoots appear small and sparse, it could suggest problems below the surface — possibly with the roots or soil quality.
   Professional soil testing and deep root fertilization might be necessary to rejuvenate growth.
   How LCS Lawn & Tree Service Can Help
   LCS Lawn & Tree Service offers a full range of tree care services to protect your investment:

• Expert tree pruning and trimming
• Deep root fertilization treatments
• Insect and disease diagnosis and treatment
• Organic soil amendment solutions
• Preventive annual tree health inspections
  Our team combines certified expertise with organic-based solutions to keep your trees healthy,
  beautiful, and safe.
  About LCS Lawn & Tree Service
  For over 30 years, LCS Lawn & Tree Service has been the trusted choice for professional lawn and tree care services across Wisconsin and Minnesota. Our certified arborists and lawn specialists are committed to providing exceptional service backed by proven expertise.
  Get a Professional Tree Health Assessment Today
  If you’ve noticed any warning signs or simply want to ensure your trees are thriving, contact LCS Lawn & Tree Service today.
  Call us now or Request a consultation to schedule your expert tree health assessment and keep your landscape strong for years to come.