How to Spot Signs of Tree Disease in Your Florida Yard

TLDR:

Florida’s lush greenery is beautiful, but trees here are especially vulnerable to diseases like oak wilt, root rot, and fungal infections. Learning how to spot signs of tree disease early—such as wilting, leaf spots, or decay—can save your trees from irreversible damage. This guide covers what to look for, what to do if you suspect a problem, and why contacting Conrad Tree Service early is the best way to protect your Florida landscape.

Protect Your Landscape from Root Rot, Oak Wilt, and More

In Florida’s warm, humid climate, trees grow tall, fast, and beautifully—but that same climate also makes them vulnerable to a wide range of diseases. While your yard may look healthy at a glance, hidden beneath the canopy could be early warning signs of trouble. And if you’re not paying attention, a minor issue can turn into a full-blown crisis before you know it.

If you’ve ever wondered whether your tree’s droopy leaves or strange bark changes are a cause for concern, this is your sign to look a little closer. Early detection of tree disease is not only possible—it’s the key to saving your trees, your landscape, and your wallet.

What Causes Tree Disease in Florida?

Florida’s natural environment is a double-edged sword for trees. While plenty of sunshine and rainfall help them thrive, these same conditions create a perfect breeding ground for fungi, bacteria, and insects. The most common culprits of tree disease in Florida include:

• Fungal pathogens from overly wet soil or poor drainage

• Insect infestations that introduce harmful bacteria or fungi

• Improper pruning or mechanical damage that opens the door to infection

• Overwatering or compacted soil that limits oxygen to the roots

Combine these factors with the stress of hurricane season and you’ve got a recipe for disease outbreaks if trees aren't properly cared for.

Florida’s Most Common Tree Diseases (And Their Warning Signs)

Knowing what to look for is half the battle. Below are some of the most common tree diseases affecting Florida yards and the symptoms that should raise a red flag.

1. Oak Wilt

• Caused by: Fungus spread by beetles and root contact between trees

• Symptoms: Wilting leaves (especially in the upper canopy), browning leaf tips, premature leaf drop

• Trees affected: Red oaks, live oaks

• Why it matters: Oak wilt can kill a tree in weeks and spread to neighboring trees if not managed quickly.

2. Root Rot (Phytophthora)

• Caused by: Fungi that thrive in saturated or poorly drained soil

• Symptoms: Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, mushy or blackened roots, tree leaning

• Trees affected: Virtually all species, but especially palms and citrus trees

• Why it matters: By the time symptoms show above ground, root rot may already be severe.

3. Sooty Mold

• Caused by: Fungi that grow on the sugary waste of aphids and whiteflies

• Symptoms: Black, powdery coating on leaves and stems

• Trees affected: Crape myrtles, citrus, magnolias

• Why it matters: While not directly harmful, it can indicate a larger pest issue and limit photosynthesis.

4. Ganoderma (Butt Rot)

• Caused by: Fungus that decays the lower trunk and roots

• Symptoms: Shelf-like growths (conks) at the base of the tree, trunk hollowing, crown thinning

• Trees affected: Palms, hardwoods

• Why it matters: It’s often fatal and there’s no cure—early removal of infected trees can protect others.

5. Anthracnose

• Caused by: Fungal infection

• Symptoms: Brown or black leaf spots, distorted leaf growth, defoliation

• Trees affected: Sycamore, oak, elm

• Why it matters: It can weaken the tree over time, making it vulnerable to other issues.

Is It Time to Worry? Ask Yourself This:

Look around your yard and ask: Are your trees behaving differently than usual? A few yellow leaves might be seasonal, but consistent changes in leaf color, bark texture, or overall shape can point to deeper problems. Trust your instincts—if something seems off, it probably is.

FAQ: Spotting and Stopping Tree Disease in Ocala, FL

Q: Can I treat a diseased tree myself?

A: While some minor fungal issues can be managed with over-the-counter treatments, most tree diseases require expert diagnosis and intervention. Misidentifying the problem could lead to the wrong treatment—and make things worse.

Q: Will a diseased tree always die?

A: Not necessarily. Many diseases, when caught early, are treatable. Even in more advanced cases, an experienced arborist can sometimes implement a plan to save the tree or safely remove it before it spreads.

Q: How do I prevent disease in the first place?

A: Regular pruning, soil health monitoring, pest management, and seasonal inspections can keep trees healthy and resistant to disease. Working with certified arborists like those at Conrad Tree Service is your best prevention strategy.

Where Should You Look First?

High-Risk Areas for Tree Disease in Your Florida Yard

Some parts of your property are more prone to problems than others. Start your inspection in these areas:

• Low-lying spots where water tends to pool

• Underneath thick canopies where sunlight is limited

• Around mulch beds that may trap moisture too close to the trunk

• Near sidewalks or driveways where roots could be compacted

• At pruning wounds or storm-damaged limbs

By focusing on these zones, you increase your chances of catching disease early—when it’s still manageable.

What to Do If You Suspect Tree Disease

If you notice unusual symptoms—wilting, blackened bark, conks at the base of the tree, or stunted growth—act quickly. Waiting too long could mean the disease spreads to nearby trees or reaches a point of no return. Here’s what to do:

1. Take Photos: Document the symptoms so you can show a professional.

2. Avoid DIY Remedies: Home remedies can often do more harm than good.

3. Contact an Arborist: A certified arborist can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

4. Call Conrad Tree Service: With deep roots in Ocala and over 50 years of experience, we’re your local experts in tree health, disease prevention, and safe removal.

   
   

Why Early Action Saves Trees—and Money

Tree diseases rarely get better on their own. The longer you wait, the more expensive and complicated the solution becomes. Here’s why calling Conrad Tree Service early matters:

• We catch it before it spreads: A diseased tree can infect others nearby.

• We treat, not just trim: Our certified arborists understand the science behind the symptoms.

• We save what’s healthy: You may not need full removal—we can often treat or isolate the issue.

• We prevent future problems: Once your trees are healthy again, we help you keep them that way with regular maintenance and inspections.

Don’t Let Disease Take Root in Your Yard

Florida’s trees are a valuable part of your home’s beauty and property value. Protect them by staying vigilant and knowing what to look for. Whether it’s oak wilt, root rot, or something more subtle, trust your instincts—and let Conrad Tree Service take it from there.

Call us today at 1(352) 867-1123 or visit www.conradtree.com to schedule your tree inspection. Our certified arborists are here to help your landscape stay strong, safe, and stunning.

Sources

• Florida Department of Agriculture: Tree Disease Guide

• University of Florida IFAS Extension: Common Tree Diseases

• Texas A&M Forest Service: Oak Wilt

• UF IFAS Gardening Solutions: Ganoderma