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Elements of Tree Health <br /> Any description of a tree's health must include the condition of all parts of <br /> the tree...its shape and the proportion of its parts, and the vigor of its roots, <br /> trunk, main limbs, branches, and foliage. <br /> 1. Root System <br /> Root structure, including the root crown, is well - formed and intact without <br /> apparent decay or the presence of parasitic organisms. <br /> 2. Trunk <br /> Trunk is free of major defects or the degrading effects of improper cuts, <br /> infection, or decay. It does not exhibit any unusual signs of structural or <br /> organic stress. The trunk tests as having a sufficient percentage of good <br /> wood density to support continued vitality. <br /> 3. Main leaders and/or scaffolds <br /> The formation of the main branch attachments is balanced, and they are <br /> attached to the trunk without any obvious signs of distress, such as major <br /> wounds or tight crotch decay. <br /> 4. Limbs <br /> The majority of tree limbs bearing a significant amount of weight are in <br /> good health, not scarred or over - loaded. <br /> 5. Foliage <br /> Good color, density, and size of leaves and shoots (without pathogens) are <br /> indicators of a vigorous tree. <br /> 4 <br />