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Growth on leaves of a tree #869175

Asked May 19, 2024, 10:06 PM EDT

The tree in our back yard (Lakeville MN) has strange red "spikes" on many of the leaves. What is it and do I need to do anything about it?

Dakota County Minnesota

Expert Response

Thank you for writing.
This is Linden Leaf gall. An insect bites the tree and puts a bacteria or virus into the leaf that causes these bumps. They are common and rarely anything to worry about.
https://horticultureforhomegardeners.ca/2021/06/21/spindle-galls-unusual-growths-on-linden-leaves-caused-by-eriophyid-mites/

Steve Miles, Hennepin County MN (I am a human being, neither a bot nor AI). I am happy to receive follow-up questions if my responses are incomplete or unclear. This is the University of MN' garden soil testing service. https://soiltest.cfans.umn.edu/testing-services/lawn-garden This is guidance on how to find a tree expert. https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/how-hire-tree-care-professional The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum is a wonderful place to see and learn about plants that grow in Minnesota. https://mngardens.horticulture.umn.edu/minnesota-landscape-arboretum Replied May 19, 2024, 10:29 PM EDT

This work is supported in part by New Technologies for Ag Extension grant no. 2020-41595-30123 from the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture. Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the view of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

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