When asking about a tree problem, photos matter as much as the description.
What to photograph
- Whole tree — step back so the shape, size, and general health are visible.
- Trunk base — include the graft union and soil line if you can.
- Affected leaves — sunlit and shaded leaves if they look different.
- Affected fruit — on the tree and one cut open if rot or internal damage is suspected.
- Close-up of symptoms — sharp focus on the spot, curl, hole, or canker.
- Area around the tree — mulch, weeds, compaction, or nearby plants that might matter.
Tips
- Take photos in natural light when possible.
- Include a coin or your hand for scale on close-ups.
- Note the date and what the weather has been like.
- If symptoms are spreading, take another set a few days later.
What photos cannot do
Photos help narrow possibilities, but they rarely replace label checks, lab samples, or an on-site visit for high-stakes decisions.