AboutJim Hyland Expertise I am an expert in Forestry, Forest Entomology, Forest Pest Control, and Forest Health. Extensive knowledge in Identification of insects and diseases of trees. Expert on Bark beetles and other insects that attack forests. Also a Registrated Forester with extensive knowledge in the management and care of forests.
Experience 34 years as State Pest Management Chief in a Southern state. Extensive knowledge in Forestry.
BS with major in Forest Management and Entomology Registered Forester Certified Pesticide Appicator
Question i have a china berry tree approximately 55 years of age and 40feet in height we live in southern california in the last few months we have had 3 smaller branches break and drop off could my tree be sick i have never seen this happen before and have been around this tree since it was first planted any advice would be greatly appreciated thanks
Answer Small branches breaking is not usually a sign that there is a health problem. There are a couple of insects that lay their eggs in small branches and then chew the branches off. The chewed end looks like a beaver has cut the branch. BUT these usually are numerous not just a few branches. It does not sound like the tree has a problem. As long as the foliage is green and healthy looking there does not seem to be a problem. A round of fertilizer may help the overall health of the tree--use 10-10-10 fertilizer at the rate of 1 lb of fertilizer per inch of trunk diameter scattered around the tree and watered in good.
