Identification should include
- hazard and conflict recognition
- condition and vitality assessment
- lightning strike
- ice damage
- wind damage
- signs and symptoms of insect damage or disease
- deadwood in the branches
- girdling roots
- age of tree
- poor structure
- included bark
- co-dominant leaders
- mechanical damage
- cavities
- cankers
- sun scald.
Process/Skill Questions:
- What are the branch and trunk defects that indicate the need for maintenance?
- What are health and vitality characteristics that indicate the need for maintenance?
- What are symptoms of soil deficiencies?
- What are the characteristics of a tree that has been struck by lightning?
- What are characteristics of disease and insect damage?
- How would a tree-care professional respond to co-dominant leaders?
- What are some methods to reduce the risk of mechanical damage to young trees?
- How can the structure of a young tree be improved to encourage the type of growth desired in a mature tree?