Sick tree - Ask Extension
A tree in our yard started displaying black sports on leaves, leaves that appear to be deforming, some leaves are falling off tree. Photos attached. ...
Knowledgebase
Sick tree #872448
Asked June 10, 2024, 3:05 PM EDT
A tree in our yard started displaying black sports on leaves, leaves that appear to be deforming, some leaves are falling off tree. Photos attached. Can you advise what disease may be damaging the tree. Is a treatment available to remedy the problem?
Thank you very much.
Wright County Minnesota
Expert Response
Thank you for writing.
My guess is a capsid bug. https://thegardenersalmanac.co.uk/Content/C/Capsid%20bug/Capsid%20Bug.htm which can cause both the destruction and puckering.
The identity needs to be confirmed though.
Try putting a half dozen leaves in a jar and see if any insects develop over the next week.
Alternatively, submit a sample to the Plant Disease Clinic at the U of Minn. https://pdc.umn.edu/
My guess is a capsid bug. https://thegardenersalmanac.co.uk/Content/C/Capsid%20bug/Capsid%20Bug.htm which can cause both the destruction and puckering.
The identity needs to be confirmed though.
Try putting a half dozen leaves in a jar and see if any insects develop over the next week.
Alternatively, submit a sample to the Plant Disease Clinic at the U of Minn. https://pdc.umn.edu/
Thank you very much.
Is the capsid bug interested in a non-fruit-bearing tree? The tree blooms but isn’t fruit bearing.
Also, will the tree die if not treated?
Vicki H
The capsid can attack non-fruit bearing trees. https://www.rhs.org.uk/biodiversity/capsid-bugs
It rarely kills the tree.
However the diagnosis cannot be confirmed by a photograph.
The plant disease clinic, listed above, can help you.
Alternatively, an arborist can confirm the diagnosis and treatment. https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/how-hire-tree-care-professional
It rarely kills the tree.
However the diagnosis cannot be confirmed by a photograph.
The plant disease clinic, listed above, can help you.
Alternatively, an arborist can confirm the diagnosis and treatment. https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/how-hire-tree-care-professional
Thank you for providing your valuable superior knowledge. Deeply grateful.
I’ve reported all to the Board Members at our homeowner association, the management company and the lawn and garden entity.
Vicki Hagerty
