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Maple leaves chewed #909722

Asked July 14, 2025, 10:13 AM EDT

Hi- I am in St Albans and have a maple tree on the banks of Lk Champlain that loses leaves in summer after something chomps on the leaves almost every summer? Can I do anything, like tree spikes with insecticide, etc.? Thanks David Barrow

Franklin County Vermont

Expert Response

Hello David,

Thanks for contacting the UVM Extension Master Gardener Helpline! I would very much like to help you with your maple tree, but unfortunately we really can’t identify the problem without some additional information, or recommend any treatment options (if necessary) without positively identifying the issue. Here’s a resource that provides some possibilities of foliage feeders on maples (scroll down to foliage feeders) - https://woodlandstewards.osu.edu/sites/woodlands/files/imce/MAPLE_toolkit_insects%26mites_250717.pdf

There are several ways you can help us determine the likely cause, starting with filling out the following questionnaire and attaching it to this ticket. This will help us collect important info. on how old the tree is, how it has been cared, etc.

https://www.uvm.edu/d10-files/documents/2024-10/UVM_Extension_Master_Gardener_Helpline_Intake_fillable_form.pdf

Also, photos would be a great help of the entire tree and most importantly of the damage on the leaves. Have you seen any insects/larvae on the leaves/tree? Here’s some guidance on submitting photos - https://www.uvm.edu/d10-files/documents/2024-10/Tips_for_submitting_photos_to_Ask_Extension.pdf

I look forward to helping you identify the problem and a suitable course of action once we receive the questionnaire and images from you.

Steve, UVM Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Replied July 14, 2025, 2:04 PM EDT

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