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Maple tree distress #923282

Asked January 03, 2026, 12:55 PM EST

My maple tree has become increasingly distressed over the last couple of years. Attached are photos from September of wilt-ey, yellowish leaves with brown dead spots. I've heard suggestion of Chlorosis, but am not sure. Can you help me correctly identify the issue and come up with a treatment plan (presumably for spring)? Thank you!

Oakland County Michigan

Expert Response

Hello, Ted!

The maple is definitely exhibiting  symptoms of chlorosis. Chlorosis is the condition whereby leaves don't have enough chlorophyll; that's why they are not-so-green. Several things can cause chlorosis: nutrient deficiency in the soil, drought, extreme PH levels, or a combination of more than one of these factors. You can test the soil around the tree through MSU ( https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/soil-testing-returns-through-msu-extension) or with a kit available through home and garden stores. If through MSU, the test results will come with soil amendment suggestions. One thing you can do before any testing is stripping turf away from the tree drip line, mulching the tree with natural mulch (untreated wood chips are a good option) and giving the tree a good soak during drought. This alone may help your maple feel better. Obviously, the stripping, mulching and watering will have to wait till spring.

More on chlorosis and how to deal with it can be found here: https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/it_isnt_fall_yet_so_why_are_my_trees_leaves_yellow

Thank you for your question!  Replied January 04, 2026, 3:44 PM EST

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