If you suddenly notice sticky dampness on the bark of your favorite tree, you might be asking, “Why is my tree dripping sap?” This thick liquid oozing out of the trunk can occasionally indicate major problems. The best option is to call professionals offering tree services in Maplewood, CO, to inspect the sap and determine whether treatment is necessary.
How Trees Use Sap
Sap is a thick substance that circulates throughout the plant’s inner wood, helping to move water and nutrients to the trunk, limbs, and canopy. You would only see actual sap if the tree has a wound or infection.
What most people assume is sap when they see it on the outside of the bark is often an insect excretion called honeydew. This is a clear, sticky substance that doesn’t come from the tree. However, it can indicate a severe insect infestation that is putting the plant’s health in danger.
Causes of Sap Dripping on the Trunk’s Bark
Tree sap may appear on the outside of the bark for several different reasons, some of which are more severe than others.
Wounds in the Bark Are Creating a Leak
When trees have wounds or cankers on the trunk or main limbs, gummosis may appear. Gummosis is a sticky substance that leaks from the inner wood and indicates the tree is trying to heal itself by sealing the wound.
Insects Are Producing Honeydew
So, why is my tree dripping sap if I don’t see any wounds in the trunk? Honeydew looks a lot like dripping sap but doesn’t threaten the plant’s health. However, as aphids and other insects produce honeydew, it can leak down the bark and attract ants and other pests.
To create honeydew, the insects feed on the wood’s vascular system, which is where the sap, nutrients, and water move through the canopy and branches. This damage can harm the plant’s long-term health.
Environmental Conditions Are Stressing the Tree
Environmental stress factors may lead to oozing liquid on the trunk. If excess heat or drought occurs, you might see this problem. However, this is rare unless insects or wounds are also present.
Some Diseases Cause Sap To Leak
A fungal infection or certain diseases can cause the trunk to ooze sticky liquid. Drippy nut disease is caused by a fungus that produces an oozing liquid. Oak trees are the most susceptible to this disease, and you’ll often see dark-colored spots on the bark when this disease is present.
For Oozing Sap and Other Problems, Trust Northern Tree and Landscaping Service, LLC
Don’t spend time worrying and asking yourself, “Why is my tree dripping sap?” Instead, contact the experts at Northern Tree and Landscaping Service, LLC. We will inspect the bark and trunk to determine whether treatments would be appropriate.
In the worst-case scenario, sap that’s accompanied by signs of insect infestations could be signs of a dying tree. For certain species, though, seeing dripping sap is a relatively normal situation. For a free consultation about what you’re seeing, call us today at (612) 919-7322.