Maple tree - Ask Extension
I think my tree has something going on lots of dead branches and leaves look kinda wimpy. No spots on leaves
Knowledgebase
Maple tree #873940
Asked June 20, 2024, 2:16 PM EDT
I think my tree has something going on lots of dead branches and leaves look kinda wimpy. No spots on leaves
Ingham County Michigan
Expert Response
Thanks for reaching out. Please attach a few photos so we can try to assist.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Hello,
The spots on the leaves is just a gall which will not harm the tree. Here is more information on that: https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/maple-gall-mites-eriophyidae/
What I see right away is the gutter that empties very close to the tree trunk. I think there is probably some root issues causing the "flagging". I would recommend clearing off the turf around the dripline of the tree (taking care not to injure the shallow root system), and putting down a 3" layer of mulch (not more than that!), pulled well away from the trunk. This will allow the root system some oxygen, and will prevent lawn equipment from having to go so close to the tree regularly. At the very least, the gutter should be directed away from the tree.
Thank you for contacting Ask Extension.
Ruth
The spots on the leaves is just a gall which will not harm the tree. Here is more information on that: https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/maple-gall-mites-eriophyidae/
What I see right away is the gutter that empties very close to the tree trunk. I think there is probably some root issues causing the "flagging". I would recommend clearing off the turf around the dripline of the tree (taking care not to injure the shallow root system), and putting down a 3" layer of mulch (not more than that!), pulled well away from the trunk. This will allow the root system some oxygen, and will prevent lawn equipment from having to go so close to the tree regularly. At the very least, the gutter should be directed away from the tree.
Thank you for contacting Ask Extension.
Ruth
Thank you, can you explain what dripping means and flagging? How far away should the drain be. Thanks again
Hello,
I just meant a circle around the tree that extends about 2-3 feet outward. That will give the roots some protection from lawn equipment and allow them some oxygen.
Flagging is what dying branches in the upper part of the tree can be called.
The gutter should be placed far enough away so that the tree trunk is not getting splashed during heavy rains, and so that the root system is not in standing water. I would recommend just pointing the end of the gutter away from the tree.
Ruth
I just meant a circle around the tree that extends about 2-3 feet outward. That will give the roots some protection from lawn equipment and allow them some oxygen.
Flagging is what dying branches in the upper part of the tree can be called.
The gutter should be placed far enough away so that the tree trunk is not getting splashed during heavy rains, and so that the root system is not in standing water. I would recommend just pointing the end of the gutter away from the tree.
Ruth
Thank you so much. Ill do those things
Thank you! Will do and hope it helps
One more question..should I have the dead branches trimmed. Would it help
Hello,
It would be best to wait until you are sure these branches are dead before pruning them out. Sometimes bare branches can put out shoots the following season. Also, you should choose cool dry weather to prune trees. Winter is the best time to prune most trees. You can tell whether a branch is dead by lightly scraping some bark off the branch- if there is a layer of green underneath, the branch is not dead and may send out shoots next season.
Ruth
It would be best to wait until you are sure these branches are dead before pruning them out. Sometimes bare branches can put out shoots the following season. Also, you should choose cool dry weather to prune trees. Winter is the best time to prune most trees. You can tell whether a branch is dead by lightly scraping some bark off the branch- if there is a layer of green underneath, the branch is not dead and may send out shoots next season.
Ruth