our maple tree is in distress - Ask Extension
Our 24 year old tree is in some sort of distress as many of the outer branches are very sparse this year. We do not regularly water our lawn or the ...
Knowledgebase
our maple tree is in distress #869756
Asked May 23, 2024, 11:07 AM EDT
Our 24 year old tree is in some sort of distress as many of the outer branches are very sparse this year. We do not regularly water our lawn or the tree. I love the tree and want to do what I can to help it. Please let me know the best course of action. Thank you.
Wayne County Michigan
Expert Response
Hi Bill,
While the foliage is a bit scarce, I don't see any obvious signs of pest or disease.
Recommend to water the tree when no rain has fallen in 5 days. You can water the tree by placing a hose at the base of the tree and let it run on a steady trickle for 30 minutes. As silver maples are adapt to growing streamside, this should reduce the drought stress on the tree.
Fertilizer generally isn't recommended for mature trees. That said, a fertilizer without nitrogen might be beneficial to the tree. Nitrogen stimulates growth, and with the tips of the branches fading, it is best to concentrate on phosphorous, which stimulates root growth, and potassium, which contributes to the general health of the tree. Fertilizers generally have three numbers on the front representing the ratio of nitrogen - phosphorous - and potassium in the mix. In this case you would want a 0 -1 - 1 mix.
I hope this helps. Do reach out if you have questions, or notice any changes in the tree.
Thank you,
-Julie
While the foliage is a bit scarce, I don't see any obvious signs of pest or disease.
Recommend to water the tree when no rain has fallen in 5 days. You can water the tree by placing a hose at the base of the tree and let it run on a steady trickle for 30 minutes. As silver maples are adapt to growing streamside, this should reduce the drought stress on the tree.
Fertilizer generally isn't recommended for mature trees. That said, a fertilizer without nitrogen might be beneficial to the tree. Nitrogen stimulates growth, and with the tips of the branches fading, it is best to concentrate on phosphorous, which stimulates root growth, and potassium, which contributes to the general health of the tree. Fertilizers generally have three numbers on the front representing the ratio of nitrogen - phosphorous - and potassium in the mix. In this case you would want a 0 -1 - 1 mix.
I hope this helps. Do reach out if you have questions, or notice any changes in the tree.
Thank you,
-Julie
Thank you very much for your response. I will try what you suggest.
