Arbor One Tree Service LLC: Colorado Springs’ Trusted Tree Service

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Why Is the Bark Falling Off Your Tree?

Fountain, United States – May 8, 2026 / Arbor One Tree Service, LLC /

Finding scattered bark beneath a shade tree can stop a homeowner in their tracks. It is not always easy to tell whether the tree is thriving or declining. Contrary to what many assume, factors beyond trees and old age are often responsible for bark loss.

Questions like “Why is the bark falling off my tree?” may deserve a closer look. Arbor One Tree Service LLC helps homeowners in Colorado Springs, CO, understand when bark loss is a problem and what to do about it.

When Bark Shedding Is Normal Growth

Some species shed bark as a natural part of maturing. For these trees, peeling is a healthy sign, not a warning. Species known for tree bark shedding naturally include:

Sycamore: Drops large patches to reveal pale, smooth inner bark
River birch: Peels in thin, papery layers as the trunk matures
Paperbark maple: Curls warm brown sheets throughout the season
Shagbark hickory: Has long, curling strips, giving it a distinctive shaggy look

Typically, if the bark underneath looks healthy and the tree shows no other symptoms, shedding is likely not a concern. However, for species like oak, ash, pine, and maple, peeling bark often points to an underlying issue.

Why Is the Bark Falling Off Your Tree in Colorado Springs?

Teams like Arbor One Tree Service LLC may identify these causes of bark loss during inspections in Colorado Springs:

Environmental Stress

Drought and heat waves can cause dead bark on tree trunks, particularly on younger trees with shallow roots. Deep watering and organic mulch a few inches from the trunk can help during dry conditions.

Sunscald or Frost Cracks

Colorado Springs experiences sharp swings between warm days and cold nights, causing the bark to expand and contract. The damage from sunscald often results in vertical splits along the south or southwest side of the trunk. Wrapping young trunks with burlap from late fall through early spring may help.

Insect Infestation Damage

Why is the bark falling off my tree? The tree may be dealing with the emerald ash borer or a similar pest. Signs of insect infestation damage often include tiny exit holes, frass near the base, or strips of peeling tree bark exposing tunnels beneath.

Signs of Tree Stress in Colorado Springs

Knowing what to look for may help homeowners decide when to get help for their tree’s bark loss. Some common problems to watch for include:

Bark peeling around the circumference of the trunk, cutting off nutrient flow
Oozing sap on the trunk
Dead branches appearing alongside the bark drop

Fungal tree disease is also a problem. Conditions like Hypoxylon canker can cause bark to slough away and leave fungal mats along the trunk. Signs of tree stress also include discoloration or soft spots.

About Arbor One Tree Service LLC

Arbor One Tree Service LLC can provide expert tree diagnosis and care throughout the Colorado Springs area, from routine inspections to identifying hidden signs of decline. For anyone asking, “Why is the bark falling off my tree?” their professionals offer the local tree services knowledge to find answers. Local residents may call Arbor One Tree Service LLC at (719) 304-9788 to schedule a consultation.