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Flowering Crab Apple Tree #878315

Asked July 22, 2024, 4:46 PM EDT

I have a flowering crab apple tree that is about 15+ years old. This spring it flowered like normal - beautiful hot pink flowers. Lately I have noticed it is dropping leaves, and just doesn't look healthy. Attached are pictures from today. It looks like the leaves are already changing for fall. It is in a rock garden, but we did pull the landscape fabric and rocks away from the base of the tree in the last few weeks. What else can and should I do to help my tree?

Otter Tail County Minnesota

Expert Response

Thank you for writing. 
This appears to be apple scab.

I suggest cleaning up all fallen leaves from now through the end of the summer. https://extension.umn.edu/plant-diseases/apple-scab
In February hire an ASA certified arborist to prune the tree.
https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/how-hire-tree-care-professional
Steve Miles, Master Gardener, Hennepin County MN (I am a human being, not a bot nor AI). I am an avid gardener but am not a degreed or certified horticulturist or arborist. I am happy to receive follow-up questions if my responses are incomplete or unclear.  This is the University of MN' garden soil testing service.  https://soiltest.cfans.umn.edu/testing-services/lawn-garden This is guidance on how to find a tree expert.  https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/how-hire-tree-care-professional The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum is a wonderful place to see and learn about plants that grow in Minnesota. https://mngardens.horticulture.umn.edu/minnesota-landscape-arboretum Replied July 23, 2024, 12:12 PM EDT

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