Does My Palo Verde Tree Have Mistletoe?
Are strange clumps growing in your Palo Verde tree? If you notice tangled growth that looks different from the tree's normal branches, mistletoe may be the cause. Before cutting anything, identify what is growing and check the condition of the supporting branch.
Warner's Tree Surgery helps homeowners investigate sick Palo Verde trees in Mesa, Arizona. Warner has been working with sick trees since he was 20 years old. Call 480-969-8808 to discuss your tree and confirm service availability.
Watch: Strange Clumps in a Palo Verde Tree
What Does Mistletoe Look Like on a Palo Verde?
Desert mistletoe can appear as a dense cluster of slender stems attached to a tree branch. Its growth may look different from the Palo Verde's normal fine twigs and small leaves. Berries may be visible at certain times of year.
A clump alone does not prove that your tree has mistletoe. Witches' broom, another Palo Verde problem, produces crowded, abnormal growth from the tree itself. An inspection helps distinguish these problems before treatment is chosen.
Can Mistletoe Hurt My Palo Verde Tree?
Mistletoe is a parasitic plant that obtains water and nutrients from its host. A small infestation does not automatically mean the tree is dying. Extensive growth can contribute to declining tree condition, and large clumps can add weight to branches.
The amount of mistletoe, the condition of the branches, and the tree's overall health help determine whether monitoring or removal is appropriate.
Should I Cut the Mistletoe Off?
Removing visible mistletoe growth does not necessarily eliminate the infestation because part of the plant remains inside the branch. Regrowth is possible. Removing an infected branch may sometimes be appropriate, but cutting major limbs can cause unnecessary damage.
Have the tree evaluated before removing large branches. Do not climb the tree or work near overhead power lines. Keep people and pets away from cracked, hanging, or unstable limbs.
What Should I Do Before Calling?
- Take a photograph of the whole tree from a safe distance.
- Photograph the unusual growth using your camera's zoom.
- Note whether the clumps are increasing or branches are dying.
- Describe recent pruning and any changes in watering.
- Avoid applying chemicals or fertilizer simply because clumps appear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does mistletoe mean my Palo Verde must be removed?
No. The presence of mistletoe alone is not a reason to remove an otherwise sound tree. The extent of the infestation and the condition of the tree should guide the decision.
Why does mistletoe come back after it is cut off?
Visible stems may regrow because living portions remain inside the infected branch. Follow-up monitoring may be needed.
Are all bushy clumps in Palo Verde trees mistletoe?
No. Witches' broom and other abnormal growth can look confusing from the ground. Correct identification comes before treatment.
Call Warner's Tree Surgery
Concerned about mistletoe or unusual growth in your Palo Verde? Call 480-969-8808. Explain what you are seeing and ask about an evaluation.
Service is limited to addresses within 10 miles of 84 E Hope St, Mesa, Arizona. This includes eligible addresses in Mesa and nearby portions of Tempe, Scottsdale, Chandler, and Gilbert. Call to confirm that your property is within the service area; entire cities are not covered.
Learn more: Palo Verde borers | Dead branches | Why a Palo Verde may be dying
Reference: University of Arizona Cooperative Extension: Mesquite and Palo Verde Trees for the Urban Landscape