Maple tree disease - Ask Extension
Hello; the tree is losing leaves rapidly and has white patches all over the bark. I have treated systematically with chemical in a 3 gal bucket and po...
Knowledgebase
Maple tree disease #877624
Asked July 17, 2024, 1:12 PM EDT
Hello; the tree is losing leaves rapidly and has white patches all over the bark. I have treated systematically with chemical in a 3 gal bucket and poured around the roots, have sprayed a fungicide and sprayed Neem oil. What is this and what is next step? Thank you.
Oakland County Michigan
Expert Response
Hi Gary,
If you can send pictures from further away from the tree, including the base, that would help. Also, please send a shot of the fallen leaves.
A bit of leaf fall from maples this time of year is normal due to the hot weather we had a week to a couple of weeks ago. Depending on your soil type, the maple may be affected by soils that are too wet or too dry as both conditions have the same effect on trees.
The fungal patches on the trees are actually lichen, which do not harm the tree. Below is an article that explains lichen.
https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/liking_lichens_in_the_landscape
Again, pictures that give a little more context to the tree's growing conditions will help. I also wonder, do you have a sprinkler system? Or does the tree get water regularly? Do you fertilize your lawn in which the tree is growing? Any recent construction or changes to the soil in the area?
Apologies for the 20 questions, but these are all things that can affect trees.
I look forward to your response.
Thank you,
-Julie
If you can send pictures from further away from the tree, including the base, that would help. Also, please send a shot of the fallen leaves.
A bit of leaf fall from maples this time of year is normal due to the hot weather we had a week to a couple of weeks ago. Depending on your soil type, the maple may be affected by soils that are too wet or too dry as both conditions have the same effect on trees.
The fungal patches on the trees are actually lichen, which do not harm the tree. Below is an article that explains lichen.
https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/liking_lichens_in_the_landscape
Again, pictures that give a little more context to the tree's growing conditions will help. I also wonder, do you have a sprinkler system? Or does the tree get water regularly? Do you fertilize your lawn in which the tree is growing? Any recent construction or changes to the soil in the area?
Apologies for the 20 questions, but these are all things that can affect trees.
I look forward to your response.
Thank you,
-Julie
