Sycamore Tree - Ask Extension
I have a sycamore tree in my front yard and I am worried that it might be diseased. Leaves and bark have been falling all summer. It just doesn't se...
Knowledgebase
Sycamore Tree #877313
Asked July 15, 2024, 1:50 PM EDT
I have a sycamore tree in my front yard and I am worried that it might be diseased. Leaves and bark have been falling all summer. It just doesn't seem as healthy as it once was. I'm wondering how I can determine whether or not care is needed and/or possible.
Umatilla County Oregon
Expert Response
Sycamore trees (Acer pseudoplatanus) can have a number of problems, including diseases and damage from their size:Sycamore trees are susceptible to a variety of fungal diseases, including sooty bark disease, anthracnose, powdery mildew, and wilt:
- Sooty bark disease: Caused by the fungus Cryptostroma corticale, this disease can cause the crown of the tree to wilt and branches to die. Rectangular patches of bark may also detach, exposing black fungal spores.
- Anthracnose: This disease causes new growth to die back, as if frost-bitten, but the tree will usually resprout new leaves. The disease is more likely to occur in cool, wet springs.
- Powdery mildew: This disease causes a white powdery fungus to grow on the upper surfaces of leaves and green shoots. Leaves may become twisted, dwarfed, or completely covered by the fungus.
- Wilt: This fungus can cause sudden wilting and browning of leaves, yellow discoloration, and defoliation. It can also cause twigs to suddenly blight, forming "shepherd's crooks".
