Crabapple tree distress, solutions? - Ask Extension
My crabapple tree bloomed beautifully this spring but has lost over 1/2 of leaves and looks very distressed. I read on Next Door that there are fungus...
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Crabapple tree distress, solutions? #873129
Asked June 14, 2024, 2:48 PM EDT
My crabapple tree bloomed beautifully this spring but has lost over 1/2 of leaves and looks very distressed. I read on Next Door that there are fungus issues with them in this St Paul area. What are some solutions to avoid losing this beautiful, older tree?
Ramsey County Minnesota
Expert Response
Thank you for writing.
There are several diseases that can do this.
In order to help you, I need a photo of the entire tree and a close up where of a branch with dying but not dead leaves.
https://extension.umn.edu/plant-diseases/apple-scab
https://extension.umn.edu/plant-diseases/fire-blight
https://arbor-experts.com/common-crabapple-diseases-that-cause-summer-defoliation/
There are several diseases that can do this.
In order to help you, I need a photo of the entire tree and a close up where of a branch with dying but not dead leaves.
https://extension.umn.edu/plant-diseases/apple-scab
https://extension.umn.edu/plant-diseases/fire-blight
https://arbor-experts.com/common-crabapple-diseases-that-cause-summer-defoliation/
I am concerned that the tree is dying as of loss of most leaves.
Jan
I do not eat the crab apples, and it was full and beautiful when it flowered in spring.
I am happy to use what is needed to save this beloved tree.
I sent photos.
will try to send more ( my phone is a bit feisty with sending them).
That appears to be a very sick tree.
Please send me two photos, one of a branch with dying, wilted (but not dead leaves) and te other of a cross section of a 1/2 branch going to dying but not dead leaves.
Send them to <personal data hidden>
Thank you
Please send me two photos, one of a branch with dying, wilted (but not dead leaves) and te other of a cross section of a 1/2 branch going to dying but not dead leaves.
Send them to <personal data hidden>
Thank you
Hi Jan,
I am sorry this happened. Sometimes when people use my email rather than the U line, I lose track of threads. This appears to be a severe case of apple scab. This is a good reference.
https://extension.umn.edu/plant-diseases/apple-scab
The tree can possibly be saved. It needs a good cleaning of debris under the tree and a thorough pruning of dead, crisscrossing and crowded branches. An arborist should do this the first time. https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/how-hire-tree-care-professional
I am sorry this happened. Sometimes when people use my email rather than the U line, I lose track of threads. This appears to be a severe case of apple scab. This is a good reference.
https://extension.umn.edu/plant-diseases/apple-scab
The tree can possibly be saved. It needs a good cleaning of debris under the tree and a thorough pruning of dead, crisscrossing and crowded branches. An arborist should do this the first time. https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/how-hire-tree-care-professional
Send the pictures and the pruning.
Steve Miles
Steve Miles
