Reasons Why Trees Die- Part I
Trees are extremely strong and resilient organisms, but like all living things, they eventually die, and there are several things that lead to their eventual demise.
- Poor Environmental Conditions
There are certain environmental conditions that make it impossible for a tree to remain healthy and eventually cause tree death. These conditions include air and ground pollution, soil that is too dry, soil that is too wet because of inadequate draining, and extreme exposure to the sun or to the cold.
- Disease
There are tree diseases, like Armillaria root rot and oak wilt, that are capable of causing mass tree decay and wiping out entire forests. These diseases enter through leaves, roots, and bark wounds, and do a great deal of damage to the tree’s vascular system.
- Insects
Trees become very vulnerable to insect infestation when they have already been weakened by poor environmental conditions. Insects attack trees by nesting, boring for food, or taking away its foliage. Pine beetles and gypsy moths are just two examples of insects that can cause the death of a tree.