Your phone or tablet can be a useful tool for identifying and diagnosing tree problems in the field. Here are a few apps that can be handy when asking the questions, “What the heck is that, and what the heck can I do about it?”
Purdue Tree Doctor: $1.99, iPhone
Produced by Purdue University, this collection of hi-res tree photos helps you diagnose what’s wrong and get some options for management. Start with what tree species you are standing in front of, then choose where on the tree you are seeing the issue. From there, you can flip though a catalog of photos to find one that matches what you are seeing. Hit “More Info” to find a detailed description of the problem and suggested control measures. The photos are all embedded in the app, so you can use it even without an Internet connection.
Content provided courtesy of Brandon M. Gallagher Watson who is the director of communications for Rainbow Treecare Scientific Advancements. He is also a certified arborist, non-certified home brewer and certifiable mobile technology geek.