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
Steven,
I have a tall rose tree that I try to protect with strips from a straw bale around the sides of the tree.
I have now been to 3 places that have sold me what they call straw bales, only to find that they are just loose straw that blows away once I open them. Previously, I received bales that were separated into long strips from the bale which protected my rose trees well from wind/snow elements.
Thoughts of where I can purchase an actual straw bale ( trying for over 2 months) so the rose tree is protected? Thank you so much.
Jan
Thank you for writing back.
Straw bales are not practical in this situation.
For now, thoroughly rake all the leaves that fall from this tree and send them away.
Have an arborist properly prune this tree in Feb or March.My signature shows how to assess arborists (which are trained in tree diseases and pruning, whereas tree trimming services just prune).
Straw bales are not practical in this situation.
For now, thoroughly rake all the leaves that fall from this tree and send them away.
Have an arborist properly prune this tree in Feb or March.My signature shows how to assess arborists (which are trained in tree diseases and pruning, whereas tree trimming services just prune).
Steven,
My question is about a ROSE TREE that needs protection for the winter.
I have used straw bales around the rose tree as recommended by the Garden shop I bought the tree from.
I take it you have no ideas of where to get a straw bale that is not just loose straw.
Sorry. My error. You live in 4b 5a--mot homes are 4b because of urban wind sheltering.
https://www.thetreecenter.com/winter-protection-for-rose-trees/?srsltid=AfmBOopx2o8xCbRz578rEg-jT2goV9dzhbX_q9P5RHTwYXnNNQ712YaG
You can find what you need at a store for horse owners. The U is not allowed to recommend specific companies. Google straw for sale near me.
https://www.thetreecenter.com/winter-protection-for-rose-trees/?srsltid=AfmBOopx2o8xCbRz578rEg-jT2goV9dzhbX_q9P5RHTwYXnNNQ712YaG
You can find what you need at a store for horse owners. The U is not allowed to recommend specific companies. Google straw for sale near me.
