Hello!

Thank you for your question.  I have two follow-up questions:

• This looks like a red maple.  Is that correct?  If not, please let me know the species and variety.
• Are these spots or holes on the leaves?

Providing answers to the questions above will help us identify the issues.



Hello!

If you can provide the answers to my previous questions we will be able to help you identify your tree's issues.

As an alternative, take a sample to your local Extension Office (see below with information on locations and sample collection) and/or take a sample to a local reputable nursery.

Hope this helps!



Hello,

Thank you for confirming.  This appears to be anthracnose or phyllosticta leaf spot.

The good news is, neither of these are typically fatal to a healthy tree.  You'll want to rake up any diseased leaves on the ground to keep the disease from spreading.

Reducing stress will help the tree fight disease.

• Water your tree throughout the growing season so that the top 6 to 8 inches of the soil is moist, especially during dry summer periods.  Soil should be allowed to dry before watering again.
• Maintain a 3- to 4-inch-deep layer of mulch around your tree.
  
  • Do not mound the mulch around the trunk of the tree but lay a flat layer with at least a 2-inch space between the mulch and stem to allow for air movement.
  • Annually reapply mulch and inspect to ensure levels are maintained.

Here are some articles with more information on why this happens, information that can help you positively identify the issue and also some controls. 

https://extension.umn.edu/plant-diseases/leaf-spot-diseases-trees-and-shrubs

https://apps.extension.umn.edu/garden/diagnose/plant/deciduous/maple/leavesspots.html

I hope this helps you!