Crab Apple Trees - Ask Extension
I'm reaching out regarding my crab apple trees. We've lived in our house almost 8 years and the trees were planted prior to us moving in. They've done...
Knowledgebase
Crab Apple Trees #869774
Asked May 23, 2024, 12:24 PM EDT
I'm reaching out regarding my crab apple trees. We've lived in our house almost 8 years and the trees were planted prior to us moving in. They've done really well expect this year the leaves turned a wilted brown after they finished blooming. We haven't changed anything within the area they are planted or treated anything with chemicals. They both appear to be dying. Is this something we can fix or is this the end of life for these trees? Attached picture for reference.
Rice County Minnesota
Expert Response
Hi Rebecca,
This almost sounds like herbicide drift damage. Are you sure no one sprayed anything? These trees could be affected if chemicals were used nearby on a windy day.
Another possibility is fireblight:
https://extension.umn.edu/plant-diseases/fire-blight
This page will help you diagnose other causes:
https://apps.extension.umn.edu/garden/diagnose/plant/fruit/apple/
You also could have a certified arborist come and take a look. You can find one here:
