Mistletoe is a common sight in trees throughout Euless, Bedford, Hurst, Grapevine, Colleyville, Southlake and the surrounding areas. Aside from stealing a kiss during the holiday season, mistletoe offers no real benefit and can become a serious problem, making it difficult to handle without the help of a professional lawn care service that also provides tree care. In some cases, it may seem as if this menace has taken over the entire tree.
Like most homeowners, you’re probably concerned about the damaging effects this parasite may have on your trees. That’s a legitimate concern, and one that should be addressed for the health of not only the infected tree but the trees around it.
How Mistletoe Can Put Your Entire Landscape at Risk
Although mistletoe does create its own food through photosynthesis, it also competes with the host tree for water and nutrients. In lightly infected trees you may observe weakened or dead branches. In more heavily infected trees you may notice stunted growth, or even the death of the tree, especially when trees are struggling with other problems like a Texas drought.
While mistletoe may not necessarily kill a tree on its own, it can weaken an infected tree so much that when combined with other issues, it could ultimately result in the tree’s loss. Factors like this make professional tree and shrub care a worthwhile investment.
Another concern is the way this parasite is spread from one tree to another. Birds are attracted to the berries that mistletoe produces. They feed on the berries’ pulp and deposit their droppings on the new host trees. The seeds are covered in a sticky substance, making it easy to attach to the new host. Once germination takes place, the rooting process begins, and the mistletoe establishes itself on the new host.
How to Remove Mistletoe Without Damaging the Tree
It’s advised to remove small limbs by pruning at least 12 inches out from the mistletoe. When it comes to growth on larger limbs or the trunk of the tree, it’s sometimes better to only cut out the mistletoe. Essentially, each situation should be evaluated individually—you don’t want to compromise the structure of the tree by needlessly cutting too much.
As stated above, over-pruning can damage the tree. To avoid issues, it’s better to enlist the services of an expert tree and shrub care service, as they can safely remove mistletoe without damaging your tree.
Trees That Resist and Attract Mistletoe
In the world of trees, different species can vary in their susceptibility to mistletoe. For instance, cedars and junipers are not bothered by this plant, and pecan trees, live oaks and magnolias are seldom infected with mistletoe. However, water oaks, Spanish oaks, elms and hackberry trees are frequently infested with the parasite. When selecting a tree for your landscape, check with local arborists, nurseries, or your county extension agent for trees that are adapted to your area and less susceptible to mistletoe.
Put an End to the Mistletoe Menace With Green Top Lawn Care
Trees are an invaluable part of your landscape, and keeping mistletoe under control is vital to maintaining their health and beauty. When it comes to dealing with this invasive, destructive and difficult to handle plant, hiring a lawn care professional that can recommend a tree service will deliver the best results. Count on Green Top Lawn Care to provide the care your trees need to thrive. Call (817) 684-4044 and request a free tree care quote.
