Knowledgebase

Maple Tree Disease #871719

Asked June 05, 2024, 1:07 PM EDT

I have a 30 year old maple tree that started to leaf out this spring but the leaves only grew to about an inch in size and wilted and died. Is it likely that this tree is dead or could it come back next year? Whatever disease that it has, should I be concerned about it transferring to my other maple trees in the yard? Thanks

Wright County Minnesota

Expert Response

Good Morning Jason, 

Thank you for contacting the U of M Extension Service. 

The drought we've had the past few years has had an effect on the trees. It takes a tree a long time to show symptoms of drought. 

From viewing your photos, I don't see any particular problem that is obvious. Your tree appears to be in the middle of a large lawn area. If it was not watered during the drought over the past summers, I would say the drought has killed it. 

You could wait for a few weeks to see if it will resprout, or show any signs of life. 

Here is a link to common diseases of Maple trees: https://portal.ct.gov/caes/fact-sheets/plant-pathology/common-diseases-of-maple#:~:text=Diseases%20occur%20on%20maples%20in,scorch%20is%20an%20occasional%20problem.

This information states: Infected trees die slowly or suddenly, depending upon the extent of infection and the overall health of the tree. Trees weakened by drought or root damage are thought to be more prone to disease.

Your tree could be weak from the drought and might be more susceptible to disease. 

A ring of wood mulch, a few inches away from the tree trunk, out about three feet would make a big difference for tree care. The mulch keeps the soil cool and moist and protects the roots. 

Please click on this link about tree care: https://extension.umn.edu/find-plants/trees-and-shrubs

Good Luck!

Maureen Graber Replied June 06, 2024, 7:43 AM EDT

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