Knowledgebase

Trees Losing Leaves #873814

Asked June 19, 2024, 3:54 PM EDT

Two of my trees has had leaves falling since beginning of spring. One picture shows the worst tree. It has lost just about all its leaves. The other picture is my front tree. It too has had a problem with some falling leaves but not near the tree shown in the back. The third picture shows a picture of the leaves and what I used to spray on the trees hoping to stop what is happening. It seemed to help the front tree but the back tree seems hopeless. Can you tell what is going on by looking at the leaves? Is this something that is showing up this year but the trees will rebound and be okay for next year. The bark on one limb did split about two inches but appears to be "healing". Thank you.

Wayne County Michigan

Expert Response

Hello,

I am having a hard time trying to identify the worst tree. It looks like a crabapple. Please send me a clear and close-up image of the tree, the trunk and the canopy (a section that has leaves)

The other tree is a crabapple.

Please send me the images - Thank You!

If you know what type of trees they are, please let me know.
An Ask Extension Expert Replied June 19, 2024, 6:15 PM EDT

Hello,

Based on the images you provided, these appear to be crabapple trees. The symptoms you’re describing on your crabapple tree are indicative of a common fungal disease known as apple scab, caused by the fungus Venturia inaequalis. More information is at these links:

Apple scab - Integrated Pest Management (msu.edu)

Apple scab of apples and crabapples | UMN Extension

Why is my crabapple tree losing leaves? - MSU Extension

Apple Scab Causes Naked Crabapple Trees | News (iastate.edu)

This disease is characterized by olive-green to brown spots on the leaves, which can cause the leaves to turn yellow and drop prematurely. Over time, if left untreated, this can weaken the tree significantly. More information is at this link:

Apple scab of apples and crabapples | UMN Extension

To prevent apple scab next year, consider the following steps:

Sanitation: Clean up and dispose of fallen leaves, as the fungus overwinters in the debris. More information is at this link:

Apple scab of apples and crabapples | UMN Extension

Pruning: Remove any visibly infected branches or twigs early in the season to reduce the spread. More information is at this link:

Apple & Crabapple Diseases | Home & Garden Information Center (clemson.edu)

Fungicides: If the disease is severe, fungicides such as thiophanate-methyl, myclobutanil, a copper fungicide, or sulfur can be applied. It’s crucial to start the treatment at the first sign of leaves in spring and continue through the early summer. More information is at this link:

Apple & Crabapple Diseases | Home & Garden Information Center (clemson.edu)

Resistant Varieties: Planting disease-resistant crabapple varieties is an effective long-term solution. More information is at these links:

Apple scab - Integrated Pest Management (msu.edu)

Apple scab of apples and crabapples | UMN Extension

Remember, proper timing and consistent care are key to managing apple scab. It’s also beneficial to ensure that your tree is well-cared for with proper watering, fertilization, and spacing to promote good air circulation, which can help reduce the conditions that favor the development of apple scab.

If you want a confirmed and precise identification and diagnosis, use one of the OPTIONS below:

OPTION 1:

For a confirm and precise identification of the problem, I recommend you send all your images by e-mail to the MSU Plant & Pest Diagnostics Lab. The experts there can also provide you with the best treatment options. Their email is <personal data hidden> - Please include your name – The lab will let you know if they need a sample sent. FYI – The lab may also ask for additional images too.

Their website is at this link:

Plant & Pest Diagnostics (msu.edu)

Their Contact Information is at this link:

Contact Us - Plant & Pest Diagnostics (msu.edu)

This link will explain the details on submitting a sample to MSU Plant & Pest Diagnostics Lab:

Submit Samples - Plant & Pest Diagnostics (msu.edu)

OPTION 2:

You can consult with a local arborist for a more detailed onsite assessment and personalized advice. To find an arborist in your Zip Code go to this link:

Find an Arborist (treesaregood.org)

I hope this helps!



An Ask Extension Expert Replied June 19, 2024, 9:37 PM EDT

Loading ...