If you’ve ever strolled through a park or your yard, you’ve probably noticed some white spots on tree bark before. What causes them, and are they a health problem? Backridge Tree Service provides your trusted tree services in Santa Rosa Beach, FL. We’ll explain what you should know about those mottled patches below.
What Are Those White Spots on Tree Bark, Anyway?
Tree bark comes in many colors, textures, and patterns. So sometimes, the white or light gray spots are just part of the tree’s appearance. However, they might indicate other living things in species with generally dark, uniform bark. Let’s find out more about those contrasting patchy areas.
Lichens
Lichen growth is among the most common and least harmless reasons for patchy white areas on tree trunks. Fungi and algae meet to create lichen growths, feasting on nutrients in the surrounding air. They often indicate a healthy, clean environment free from excessive pollution.
Lichen often feels papery to the touch, and you can usually pull layers off the tree bark without harming the tree itself. They don’t feed off the trunk and, therefore, pose no threat.
Fungi
On the other hand, an opportunistic fungal infection might cause white spots on tree bark. Fungal growths often indicate overly humid conditions and may feed on rotting tree bark. A common example — powdery mildew — coats the tree trunk as it spreads. It may wipe off on your finger when you touch it.
Pests
Pests not only cause bark discoloration, but they can also blend in with the bark enough to make you think they’re part of the tree. We’re talking scale insects and mealybugs. Many scale insects attach to the bark or branches to suck juices from their hosts.
They typically look brown or black, making them difficult to see. However, some varieties have a light brown to white coloration. Clusters of scale insects can make the tree look like it has white spots.
Fuzzy, white mealybugs tend to gather together in a specific area, creating small, fluffy patches along the trunk or branches.
Bark Stress
While Florida has fairly mild weather during fall and winter, we can sometimes have cold snaps that stress warm-climate trees. The tree bark might have significant moisture buildup from winter rains. Cold temperatures cause the wood to contract.
Once the sun comes back out, it can cause sunscald. The light and heat quickly dry out the moisture while warming the wood. Sometimes, discolored bark is the result.
Should You Seek Professional Help for Your Trees?
Remember, lichens feel papery and can easily peel off the bark surface without damaging the trunk. The other causes may indicate poor tree health. If you don’t think those white spots come from lichens, schedule a tree risk assessment.
Contact Backridge Tree Service for a Tree Risk Assessment in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida
Do you think the white spots on tree bark come from fungi or pests? Call Backridge Tree Service at 850-240-2829 for a tree risk assessment in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. We can help with treating fungus on tree bark and other protective measures.