The choice to plant shade trees in the landscape is an easy one for many homeowners. Whether hoping to provide much needed shade during the hottest months of summer or wishing to create habitat for native wildlife, the establishment of mature shade trees can be a lifelong process that requires the investment of quite a bit of time, money, and patience. With this in mind, it is easy to imagine why growers may become alarmed when mature shade trees begin showing signs of perceived distress in the form of bark loss, as in the case of bark coming off plane trees.
Why is My Plane Tree Losing Bark?
The sudden or unexpected loss of bark in mature trees can be quite the cause for concern for many homeowners. Commonly used in landscaping and along busy city streets, one specific variety of tree, the London plane tree, is known for its habit of drastic bark shed. In fact, the London plane tree, as well as others such as the sycamore and some types of maples, will shed their bark at varying rates. While the amount of shed from the trees each season is unpredictable, bark coming off plane trees during heavy shed seasons may lead growers to believe that their trees have become diseased or that something is seriously wrong. Luckily, in many cases, plane tree bark loss is a completely natural process and does not warrant any cause for concern. While there are several theories as to why plane tree bark shedding occurs, the most commonly accepted cause is that the bark falling off plane tree is simply the process of old bark removal as a means to make way for new and developing layers. Additional theories suggest that bark drop may be the tree’s natural defense against invading parasites and fungal diseases. Whatever the cause may be, bark shed alone is not cause for concern for home gardeners.
-
Want a Backyard Mini Orchard? Create Your Own Container OrchardEasier to care for in small spaces, a backyard mini-orchard makes sense for busy gardeners and juicy fruit is the reward.
-
Urban Beekeeping Guide: Top Tips For Raising Bees In The CityUrban beekeeping can be a rewarding and appreciated pastime, but first be sure it’s legal in your city and learn the ropes of beekeeping.
-
Plane Tree Varieties – Learn About Different Kinds Of Plane TreeWhat comes to mind when you think of a plane tree? The purpose of this article is to clear up the differences among the many types of plane tree. Click here to learn more about the different plane tree varieties you might come across.
-
Plane Tree Winter Care – How To Prevent Plane Tree Winter DamageFrost cracks on plane trees are the most dangerous signs of cold damage. However, most winter plane tree problems are superficial and the tree will heal itself over time. Learn when to worry and when to wait on plane tree winter damage in this article.
-
Oriental Plane Tree Info: Learn About Oriental Plane TreesWhat is an oriental plane tree? It is a deciduous tree species that can be an attractive shade tree in the backyard. If you want to know more about oriental plane trees, click here. You’ll find lots of oriental plane tree info plus tips on growing an oriental plane tree of your own.
-
Plane Tree Benefits – What Can Plane Trees Be Used ForThe big, leafy plane tree graces streets in some of the busiest cities around the world. This versatile tree has adapted to survive pollution, grit and punishing wind, living on to provide welcome beauty and shade for many years. Find more plane tree benefits here.
-
Sowing Seeds Of Plane Trees – Learn How To Plant Plane Tree SeedsPlane trees are tall, elegant, long-lived specimens that have graced urban streets around the world for generations. The trees are easy to propagate by taking cuttings, but if you’re patient, you can try growing plane trees from seed. Click here to learn how to plant plane tree seeds.
-
Plane Tree Water Needs – Tips For Watering A London Plane TreeLondon plane trees have been popular urban specimens for nearly 400 years, and with good reason. They are remarkably hardy and tolerant of a variety of conditions. But how much water does a plane tree need? Click here to learn about watering a London plane tree.
-
What To Do About Plane Tree Roots – Problems With London Plane RootsLondon plane trees are highly adapted to urban landscapes and as such are common specimens in many of the world’s largest cities. Unfortunately, the love affair with this tree seems to be coming to an end due to problems with plane tree roots. Learn more here.
-
Plane Tree Pollen: Do Plane Trees Cause AllergiesPlane trees are often urban trees, growing in or on the outskirts of cities. Do plane trees cause allergies? Many people say that they have an allergy to London plane trees. For more information on plant tree allergy problems, this article will help.
