If you’ve noticed damaged branches, discolored leaves, or a tree that just doesn’t look right this summer, you’re not alone. As a local tree service in Arlington Heights, our crews have been out on properties across town all season, and a few problems keep showing up again and again. Here’s what we’re seeing, what causes it, and when it’s time to call a certified arborist near Arlington Heights.
1. Storm Damage and Weak Branch Attachments
Arlington Heights has seen its share of strong summer storms this year, and storm damage tree removal has been one of our most common calls. More often than not, the trees that fail hardest are the ones with weak branch attachments — points where two branches (or a branch and the trunk) grow too closely together and never form a strong bond underneath the bark.
Silver maples and pear trees are two of the most common offenders we see locally. As they mature, they tend to develop these weak unions, which can hold up fine in calm weather but give way under heavy wind and rain.
Warning signs: V-shaped branch unions (rather than U-shaped), visible cracks near where limbs meet the trunk, or limbs that hang lower than they used to.
2. Heat and Drought Stress
Even after a wet spring, Arlington Heights summers bring stretches of dry, hot weather that stress trees — especially younger ones or those planted in the last few years. Drought-stressed trees often show wilting or curling leaves, early leaf drop, or a thinning canopy.
Stressed trees are also more vulnerable to pests and disease, since they don’t have the energy reserves to fight off an infestation the way a healthy tree can.
Warning signs: Leaves scorched at the edges, branches dying back from the tips inward, or leaf drop well before fall.
3. Japanese Beetle Damage
This is peak season for Japanese beetles in the Chicago suburbs, and Arlington Heights is no exception. These metallic green-and-copper beetles feed in groups, skeletonizing leaves until only the veins remain. Linden, birch, and crabapple trees tend to be favorite targets in local yards.
While a light infestation usually won’t seriously harm a mature, healthy tree, repeated years of heavy feeding can weaken it over time.
Warning signs: Lace-like or skeletonized leaves, especially on the sunnier side of the tree, and clusters of beetles actively feeding in late morning and afternoon.
4. Emerald Ash Borer: Still a Threat in Illinois
Emerald ash borer has been in the Chicago area for years, but we’re still finding infested ash trees on Arlington Heights properties — often because the damage isn’t obvious until the tree is already in serious decline. If you still have an ash tree that hasn’t been treated or removed, summer is a good time to have it evaluated by a professional.
Warning signs: Thinning canopy at the top of the tree, D-shaped exit holes in the bark, vertical bark splits, and increased woodpecker activity (they feed on the larvae underneath).
5. Fungal and Bacterial Issues After Wet Stretches
Humid summer weather, especially after a run of rainy days, creates good conditions for fungal problems like anthracnose and bacterial issues like fire blight. We’ve seen both show up on maples, oaks, and ornamental pear trees around Arlington Heights this season.
Warning signs: Dark, irregular leaf spots, blackened or wilted shoot tips (especially on pear and crabapple trees), and premature leaf drop concentrated on one section of the tree.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I call an arborist about storm damage? If a tree has cracked limbs, a split trunk, or debris hanging in the canopy after a storm, it’s best to have it inspected right away — even if the damage looks minor from the ground. Hidden cracks can lead to sudden limb failure later.
How do I know if my ash tree has emerald ash borer? Common signs include thinning at the top of the canopy, small D-shaped exit holes in the bark, and increased woodpecker activity. An arborist can confirm with a closer inspection and recommend treatment or removal.
Is it too late to treat Japanese beetle damage this summer? Established, healthy trees typically recover from a season of beetle feeding on their own. If damage is severe or recurring year after year, treatment options are available — reach out and we can advise on next steps.
How much does tree removal cost in Arlington Heights? Cost depends on the tree’s size, condition, and location on the property. We provide free, no-obligation estimates so you know exactly what to expect before any work begins.
When to Call a Local Arborist
Many of these problems are far less expensive to manage when caught early. A tree that shows warning signs in July is often a simple pruning or treatment call. The same tree left unaddressed can become an emergency removal after the next storm.
If you’ve noticed any of the signs above on your Arlington Heights property, or just want a second opinion before the next round of summer storms rolls through, our ISA Certified Arborists are happy to take a look. We’ve been working on trees throughout Arlington Heights and the surrounding North Shore communities, and we’re always glad to help a neighbor keep their trees healthy and safe.
Ready for a free evaluation? Contact Advanced Tree Care to schedule a visit from one of our arborists.
Advanced Tree Care proudly serves Arlington Heights and surrounding communities including Deerfield, Winnetka, Wilmette, Evanston, Northbrook, and Glenview.