Shade trees (maple, oak, elm, etc.)

A group of mature maple trees and their surroundings.

Shade trees (maple, oak, elm, etc.)

Whole Tree and Surroundings

Whole-tree photos provide essential context for diagnosing problems. They show the tree's overall growth habit, the pattern and distribution of symptoms, and how the plant interacts with its surroundings. These images help identify environmental stressors such as nearby structures, competing vegetation, soil conditions, or exposure issues that may be contributing to the symptoms. Be sure to include a photo of the entire tree from a distance to help identify factors that may be affecting its health.

Photo collage showing 5 different trees in suburban settings — Several whole trees and their surroundings

Trunk and Base of Tree

Include images of the trunk from multiple angles and the ground around the base of the tree. Photos of the tree trunk, trunk flare, and area around the base are very important for diagnosing tree problems. These images help experts assess planting depth, mulching practices, physical damage, and early signs of disease or decay that often contribute to overall tree stress or decline. Trunk photos provide essential context that cannot be determined from leaves or canopy symptoms alone, making them a key part of an accurate diagnosis.

Three photos showing different tree trunks with varying bark conditions. The first tree has darkened, damaged bark near the base; the second tree has healthy bark on the trunk; the third tree has bark covered with clusters of insects or pests — Photos showing three tree trunks with varying bark conditions

Canopy

Include photos of sections of the canopy to show where problems are occurring in the tree. These pictures make it easier to see if damage is limited to certain branches or spread throughout the tree, and help identify areas with thinning, discoloration, or dieback.

Photograph collage showing close-up and distant views of tree branches with leaves that are green, brown, or chlorotic. Some branches are missing leaves. — Various canopy images showing foliar symptoms

Close-up Photos of Foliar Symptoms

Close-up images reveal the fine details of symptoms that cannot be seen from a distance.
These images can show leaf spots, insects, or insect feeding damage, and nutritional deficiencies. Clear close-ups make it much easier to identify the problem and recommend the right solution. Close-ups also allow diagnosticians to identify signs such as insect frass, fungal spores, exit holes, or discolored patterns that are critical for determining the true cause of the problem. By providing these detailed views, you make it easier to pinpoint the exact issue and recommend the most effective treatment.

A collage of five photos showing various plant leaves affected by different types of leaf spots and damage. Damage includes yellowing, browning, leaf curling, and visible lesions on leaf surface. — Close-up images of various types of leaf damage

Cankers and Galls

Photos of specific symptoms, such as cankers, galls, or swellings, give experts the details they need to correctly diagnose tree problems.

Photo showing two up-close views of tree branches with bark damage or cankers. — Tree branches with cankers and bark damage

Photo showing two close-up views of plants with galls. The first photo has brown round galls encompassing the branches. The second photo has green galls on the leaf surface. — Branch and Leaf Galls

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Plant & Pest Diagnostics