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5 Things to Look For on Your Next Woodland Walk

With summer just around the corner and trees bursting into full bloom, it's the perfect time to head out on a woodland walk! Discover hidden treasures and spot things you wouldn't usually notice—nature is full of surprises waiting for you!


There are plenty of visible signs that can reveal a tree's health, showing whether it's thriving or struggling. In this blog, we'll explore five key things to look for and what they indicate about the tree's condition.


1. Fruiting Bodies:

A fruiting body on a tree is the reproductive structure of a fungus. It can appear as mushrooms, brackets, conks, or other fungal formations. These structures produce spores, allowing the fungus to spread.

Mushrooms and other fungi are the forest's recyclers, breaking down dead organic matter into nutrients. Spotting these fruiting bodies not only adds a magical touch to your walk but can also indicate the health of the trees they adorn. Fungi like the honey fungus can be a sign of decay within a tree, while others, like mycorrhizal fungi, are beneficial partners to the trees.


Remember, it is so important NOT to touch any fungi or fruiting bodies you find in the wild, and if you do, wash your hands immediately.


-Honey Fungus can be a sign of decay within a tree


2. Ancient Trees

Ancient trees are the wise old guardians of the woodland. With their thick trunks and expansive canopies, they provide habitats for countless creatures. Look for trees with gnarled bark and hollowed trunks—these venerable giants have weathered centuries and are vital to the ecosystem. However, their age can sometimes make them susceptible to diseases, so keep an eye out for signs of distress.


3. Inonotus (Ash Heartrot)

Keep your eyes peeled for signs of Inonotus which is more commonly known as Ash heartrot, a fungal disease that affects Ash trees. It causes the heartwood to decay, leading to structural weakness. Look for mushrooms growing from the trunk and branches, or any unusual cracks and cavities. Spotting these early can help in managing the health of the Ash tree..



-Inonotus which is more commonly known as Ash heartrot, a fungal disease that affects Ash trees.


4. Sycamore Helicopters

Sycamore trees are known for their distinctive winged seeds, often called "helicopters" due to their spinning descent to the ground. These playful seeds are a joy to watch but also a sign of the tree's reproductive cycle. An abundance of seeds can indicate a healthy tree, but in some cases, it might also suggest the tree is under stress and producing more seeds as a survival strategy. These seeds are also very poisonous to horses.


5. Rootballs

The rootball of a tree, consisting of the roots and the soil surrounding them, is crucial for stability and nutrient uptake. During your walk, look for signs of root exposure or upheaval, which can indicate root damage or instability. Trees with extensive visible roots might have been affected by soil erosion or might be struggling to anchor themselves properly. Many trees have uprooted in winter storms such as Arwen. The rootball can be very dangerous if the trunk becomes unattached from the rootball.


These signs are not just fun to spot—they can also reveal secrets about a tree's health and wellbeing! By paying attention to these clues, you might uncover hidden issues that aren't obvious at first glance. So, keep an eye on the trees during your local walks or in your garden to see if they need any care to stay healthy and safe.


Happy exploring!


If you have any queries about your trees, get in touch. Our expert team can help explain the process and provide a free, no obligation quote. TC Tree Services have many years of experience providing tree care throughout the North East & Scotland, and can carry out the work to the highest professional standard using the very best equipment for the job.



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