How to Spot and Treat Tree Disease Before Winter in Blackburn

Trees are a year-round asset, but as winter approaches in Blackburn, they face increased risk from disease and decay. With cold snaps, excess moisture, and less light, trees that are already stressed or infected can quickly deteriorate. Whether you’re a homeowner, landlord, or responsible for commercial grounds, spotting the signs of tree disease in Blackburn early can prevent serious damage, liability, and costly removals.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to identify common diseases, what action to take, and when to call in the professionals at NorthernArb Tree Services.

1. Ash Dieback (Hymenoscyphus fraxineus)

Symptoms: Leaf loss, dark lesions on bark, canopy thinning
High-risk in: Ash trees throughout Lancashire
Action: Contact a certified arborist for removal or management

2. Honey Fungus (Armillaria) Symptoms:

Symptoms: White fungal sheets under bark, mushrooms at the base, rotting roots
Risk: Can spread underground to neighbouring trees
Action: Root inspection, barrier installation, or removal if necessary

3. Bleeding Canker of Horse Chestnut Symptoms:

Symptoms: Dark, bleeding lesions on trunk, leaf yellowing
Local sighting: Often found in older chestnut trees in urban parks
Action: Prune deadwood and improve drainage

4. Powdery Mildew Symptoms:

Symptoms: White powdery coating on leaves, stunted growth
Common on: Oak, maple, and sycamore
Action: Improve airflow, prune affected areas

5. Coral Spot (Nectria cinnabarina) Symptoms:

Symptoms: Pink/orange pustules on dead branches
Indicates: Tree stress or underlying health issues
Action: Remove infected wood and assess overall health

Before calling in the professionals, there are several steps you can take to reduce the risk of disease:

• Keep trees pruned: Remove deadwood to prevent entry points for pathogens
• Improve soil drainage: Soggy roots increase fungal risk
• Avoid damage: Lawn equipment injuries allow disease in
• Monitor regularly: Walk your grounds and inspect for changes

But if you’re ever unsure, it’s best to get expert help. Many tree diseases present similar symptoms, and misidentification can lead to incorrect treatments.

“It’ll recover on its own.”

Not always. Some diseases, like Ash Dieback, are fatal and require prompt action to prevent spread.

“I can treat it with household products.”

DIY treatments can worsen infections or damage the tree. Always use professional services for tree care.

“Winter will kill off the infection.”

Most pathogens survive cold temperatures and resume activity in spring.

Tree disease is often silent until it’s too late. A small infection today can become a major hazard by January. Let NorthernArb Tree Services give you peace of mind with our local, expert care.